How to Evaluate a Nanny at Performance Review Time
A nanny’s performance review isn’t just an administrative task. It’s a cornerstone of a healthy, lasting relationship built on professionalism, clarity, and respect. When families approach reviews with structure and fairness, they reinforce trust, and that trust directly impacts how well a nanny can do her job.
Establish a Review Schedule Early
Families should decide during the hiring process how often reviews will take place, whether quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, and include it in the written work agreement. This sets clear expectations from the start and helps both parties plan for consistent communication.
For example, during onboarding, a family might say:
“We’d like to hold formal reviews twice a year, in May and November. It gives us a chance to talk about what’s going well, review your pay, and plan ahead for the next few months.”
Predictability communicates professionalism. Reviews should never be a surprise or held only when there’s a problem.
Why Reviews Matter
Nannies work inside a family’s most personal space, their home, and success depends on mutual understanding. A structured review gives families a dedicated space to discuss expectations, routines, and changes in the household, while also recognizing the nanny’s daily effort.
For the nanny, it’s a moment to feel valued and secure. For the family, it’s an opportunity to reinforce what’s working and address what needs adjustment before frustration builds.
What the Nanny Expects
Professional nannies expect reviews to be handled with fairness and transparency. They look for three main things:
Clarity. Direct, thoughtful communication about expectations.
Appreciation. Acknowledgment of effort and reliability.
Fair Pay. A cost-of-living raise every year, no exceptions.
A cost-of-living increase is not a bonus. It’s an adjustment to keep compensation current as inflation rises. Families who skip annual adjustments unintentionally devalue the role over time.
You might say:
“We’ve reviewed this year’s cost-of-living trends and are increasing your pay by 4%. We appreciate all you do for our family and want your compensation to stay fair.”
Addressing Added Responsibilities
Sometimes new duties emerge between reviews, such as a new baby, extra driving, family meals, or additional household tasks. If the nanny agrees to take on those responsibilities, compensation should be discussed immediately rather than waiting for the next review.
For example:
“Since you’ll now be handling preschool pickup and preparing dinner three nights a week, we’d like to increase your hourly rate. We’ll also check in after the first month to make sure it feels fair.”
If the family isn’t sure what the adjustment should be, they can always reach out to the agency for guidance. Agencies like Kensington Nanny help families benchmark new pay rates based on regional averages, expanded duties, and professional standards.
Addressing pay in real time shows respect and prevents misunderstandings.
Structuring the Review
A productive review feels conversational but structured. Families can follow this outline:
- Start with Gratitude
“We want to start by saying how much we appreciate your consistency and calm presence. The children are thriving under your care.”
- Reinforce What’s Working
“Your approach to the morning routine has made a huge difference. The kids start the day happy and ready.”
- Discuss Adjustments
“With school starting next month, we may need to shift pickup times. Let’s discuss what schedule works best for everyone.”
- Review Pay
“We’d like to give a 5% cost-of-living raise and continue reviewing compensation annually.”
- Confirm Next Steps
“Let’s plan our next review for April. If anything significant changes before then, we’ll address it right away.”
Keep It Collaborative
The best reviews are two-sided. Ask for feedback:
“Is there anything you need from us to make your day run more smoothly?”
“Are there supplies or materials you’d like for activities?”
“Do you feel the current schedule still works well?”
By inviting input, families show respect for the nanny’s professional insight and ensure she feels supported in her work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping or delaying reviews. It signals the relationship isn’t being managed professionally.
Postponing raises. Cost-of-living increases must happen annually.
Waiting to adjust pay for new duties. Discuss changes immediately if the nanny agrees to take them on.
Focusing only on critique. Reviews should emphasize appreciation and collaboration.
A Review That Strengthens the Relationship
When families take reviews seriously, they build loyalty, trust, and long-term stability. The review is a professional conversation, not a personal confrontation. It shows that the family sees the nanny’s work as part of a lasting partnership, one deserving of fair pay, consistent recognition, and open communication.
A well-run review says, “We value you, and we want this relationship to grow.” And that message, paired with fairness and respect, is what keeps great nannies exactly where they belong, with your family.