2018 Holiday Bonus Guide for Your Nanny, Babysitter or Housekeeper

We get some variation of the question below a lot during this time of year and wanted to offer some guidance.

"Thank you, thank you, we are very happy with Marie (name changed by the agency for privacy) and need some guidance for her Christmas bonus. As a reminder, you placed her with us almost 3 years ago. She is a gem and we are all grateful. Thanks in advance."

To answer your question, a full-time nanny can usually expect a holiday bonus of one week's compensation - two week's pay depending upon her length of service. Other ideas include a round trip airfare to her home-town for the holidays or a cruise trip. Additionally, if the nanny has been with the family less than a year, half of her weekly salary is standard. If the nanny is  just starting, a $100 to $200 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 is 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!