Holiday Bonus Guide for Your Nanny, Babysitter or Housekeeper

Understandably, we get the question below a lot during this time of year and wanted to offer some guidance.

"Hope all is well! Since we are new at the whole nanny thing (Sandra is AMAZING!) I wanted to get your thoughts on a holiday bonus. I know Sandra (name changed by agency for privacy) has only been with us since October but I still want to pay her a holiday bonus, she works so hard. What are the typical guidelines for a bonus? Thanks so much!"

To answer your question, a full-time nanny can usually expect a holiday bonus of one week's pay - two week's salary depending upon her length of service.  Additionally, if the nanny has been with the family under a year, half of her weekly salary is standard. If the nanny is  just starting, a $100 gift card sets a nice tone.  A hand-written note of thanks expressing your appreciation and referencing a yearly highlight of the caregiver/child relationship is an additional way to show your genuine gratitude. 

Some families will include an extra little something coming from the children like a homemade card, cookies or her favorite confection which surrounds the monetary gift with genuine warmth and appreciation from the child.

For the part-time regular babysitter that provides care several times each month, a gift equal to one night's pay are the norm. Many families choose to provide a $50-$100 gift card to her favorite shop, cafe, nail salon etc.

Housekeeper/Cleaner, one or two week's pay, depending upon her length of service and a small gift like a bottle of wine, fine chocolate or Mani-Pedi gift card.

Obviously, this is a general guideline of industry norms in the NY Metro Region. Some families give considerably more or less depending on overall job performance, length of employment, particular circumstances and family budget. 

Wee Care Nanny wishes you and your loved ones a wonderful and joyous holiday season!

Posted by Wee Care Nanny