Why employing a nanny was the best parenting decision I made
Employing a nanny can be very beneficial for families, offering a flexible and highly personal form of childcare. We’ve asked Nathalie, our Nannytax Parent Ambassador, to share the benefits that employing a nanny has had for her and her family.
Being a mum to three young children, a four-year-old daughter, a two-year-old son, and an eight-month-old baby, is both the greatest joy and the biggest challenge of my life. And as a working mum, finding the right balance between career and family has been a journey. One decision, though, has made a world of difference – hiring a nanny.
We brought our first nanny into our lives when my eldest child was one year old, just as I was returning to work after my maternity leave. Since then, I’ve also taken six months off with my second child and four months with my third. Each return to work brought its own set of emotions – guilt, worry, and the hope that I was doing the right thing for both my children and myself. Having a nanny by our side helped ease every transition.
1. A smooth return to work after maternity leave
Going back to work after maternity leave is never easy. With each of my children, I experienced a mix of anxiety and excitement. What made it more manageable for me was knowing my children were at home, in a familiar and loving environment, and being cared for by someone we completely trusted. Our nanny didn’t just care for the kids, she became a steady presence who understood their routines, their quirks, and their needs. That peace of mind is priceless when you’re trying to focus on work while still wearing your ‘mum hat’.
2. Tailored, loving care at home
One thing that I find most valuable about having a nanny is the 1:1 childcare our nanny provides, she makes sure that each day is tailored to my children’s personalities and developmental stages, whether that be engaging activities for my curious four-year-old, playful learning for my toddler, or cuddles and tummy time for my baby.
3. Flexibility
With three kids and a demanding job, life doesn’t always follow a strict 9-to-5 schedule. Our nanny offers us flexibility that no other childcare arrangement could provide. Whether I need to jump on an early meeting, deal with a late work call, or simply catch up on admin, I know she’s there to make sure the kids are taken care of.
4. Consistent support through life’s transitions
It’s well known that children thrive on stability, and our nanny has been a constant through many changes (new siblings, potty training, preschool transitions, and shifting routines). Her consistent presence and support has provided our children with a strong sense of security, and for me, it’s been reassuring to know there’s someone I can rely on through every stage of motherhood and my career.
5. Our nanny is a part of our family
Over the years, our nanny has become more than just help, she’s become part of our family. She’s been there for first steps, first words, and all the little moments in-between. The bond she has with our children is genuine and heart warming, and I feel so fortunate that they’re growing up with someone who loves and nurtures them in such a meaningful way.
As a working mum, I’ve faced the well known tug-of-war between ambition and motherhood. Hiring a nanny was one of the best decisions I’ve made, not just to keep our home running smoothly, but to create a supportive environment where my children thrive and I can show up fully, both at work and at home.
If you’re a parent navigating work and family life, and considering a nanny, I can wholeheartedly say it’s an investment that can bring balance, peace of mind, and immeasurable value to your entire family.
