What’s it like to be a nanny?
If you are thinking about becoming a nanny, you may have discovered that there are many different types of nanny roles. From live-in nannies to live-out nannies, after-school nannies, maternity nannies, specialist nannies, and more – nannying offers a wide range of career opportunities.
Understanding ‘what’s it like to be a nanny?’ in these different roles can help you decide where you’d like to start. That’s why we’ve asked three of our Nannytax Nanny Ambassadors to share their experiences of their nanny roles, giving you insight and helping you find the right nanny job for you.
Isabel, Part-Time Nanny
“I currently work as a part-time nanny for two families, after previously working in temporary roles. While I valued the flexibility and variety of temp work, returning to consistent placements has been incredibly fulfilling and has allowed me to rebuild deeper, more meaningful bonds with the children and their families. Being part of their routines and watching the children grow has reminded me just how special these relationships are.
What I enjoy most about nannying is the trust that develops over time and understanding each child’s personality, supporting their development, and being a steady, reassuring presence for both them and their parents. A challenge people might not expect is the emotional investment the role requires; nannying involves far more than practical care, from adapting to family dynamics to supporting children through changes with patience and professionalism.
What keeps me in this work is knowing the impact it has. Seeing children feel safe, confident, and happy in my care, and knowing I make a genuine difference to a family’s everyday life, is what continues to inspire me.”
Holly, Live-In Nanny
“I’m a Norland trained nanny currently in a live-in nanny role in London working with one boy aged two and a half. I have had the privilege of being with this family for over two years so have really been able to see the growth and development of the child and watch him flourish within the home environment.
I enjoy nannying because it enables me to provide personalised care and activities based on his interests, needs and milestones. My role also provides a lot of freedom allowing for all sorts of adventures around London, we have great fun!
I have always had a passion for supporting and working with children and nannying allows me to work closely with a family in a very specific and tailored way. I feel very much part of the family and it’s such a joy to have built such a wonderful relationship with my charge.”
Max, Ad-hoc Manny
“I am an Ad-Hoc manny who works for numerous families. The most enjoyable part of my role is helping so many different families and going on different adventures each time!
I’m definitely a craft nanny – I love doing art and slime with my charges.
A challenge people may not expect is big emotions from the little ones, always regulating and managing emotions are a big part of being a nanny!
What keeps me in my job are the families and people I work with and my love for the role.”
Looking for a nanny job?
We can help you. We work with hundreds of specialist nanny agencies across the UK, who can help to find the perfect role for you. Click the button below to complete our short form, we’ll then put you in touch with a trusted, local nanny agency that will be in touch to discuss your requirements.
Who are Nannytax?
We’re the UK market leader in nanny payroll and we’ve been supporting families and nannies for over 30 years. We save families precious time by removing the hassle of payroll, tax and various ongoing legal admin involved when employing a nanny. As the largest Nanny PAYE and workplace pension service provider in the country, we are trusted by over 10,000 domestic employers and recommended by 200+ UK nanny agencies. We also offer additional services such as Employers Liability Insurance and Nanny Pensions.
