In today’s competitive work landscape, it’s critical to not only offer a competitive, livable wage to your nanny, but also provide the type of benefits that attract and retain the best of the best. In addition to health care benefits or a stipend that your nanny can put toward their own health care plan, there are a variety of other benefits that household employers offer their in-home childcare providers. By providing a robust wage and benefits package, you’ll be able to ensure your nanny feels seen and respected. Keep reading to learn more about some important benefit options to consider.
Retirement Benefits:
Whether your nanny is just starting out in their career, or they have decades of childcare experience and expertise, your nanny will want to consider their financial future and retirement. Providing your household employee with a 401K plan or individual retirement account contributions can give you an advantage in the hiring and recruiting process. This demonstrates that you are not only invested in their immediate success, but their long-term future and wellbeing, as well. Consider contacting a financial advisor or other financial professional that can walk you through some retirement options that could work for your family.
Bonuses:
Your nanny provides loving and compassionate care to your family and works hard to do right by you. A hardworking and dedicated nanny should be recognized and appreciated regularly, and monetary bonuses are a great way to do this. It shows that you see them and value their hard work. Annual bonuses around the holidays are one easy way to integrate bonuses into your routine for your nanny, but many families choose to come up with a bonus schedule that’s spread throughout the year. While a cash bonus is customary and often the most appreciated, some employers choose to combine these with gift cards or other gifts that are customized to your nanny. For example, a handwritten thank you note from you and the children with a gift card to their favorite restaurant or an airline voucher and note giving them an extra paid day off would be a great way to show your gratitude.
Reimbursement for Training or Education:
Just like any career, it’s important to be a continual learner. So, consider paying for your any job-related training, seminar, certification, or other conferences that your nanny wants to participate in. All of these can enhance your nanny’s service to your home and be a huge benefit to your children. If your nanny is working toward a college degree that relates to their career as a childcare professional, it’s common to provide reimbursement or contributions for that education. This can help motivate your nanny and show that you are invested in them.
Your nanny is a valuable part of your home and its operations, and offering the right combination of employment benefits is key. This shows that you respect them and helps establish loyalty, which can translate to a longer, happier working relationship. Your home deserves the best and with practical benefits, a good wage, great communication, and an emphasis on respect, you will open the door to finding a nanny who will become part of the fabric of your family.