An annual review with your nanny family can feel intimidating, especially if you have never had one before. In an industry that feels innately different than other, more traditional careers, nannies often haven’t experienced a formal performance review in past roles. So the idea of an annual review may bring uncertainty or nerves. The good news is that when approached thoughtfully, an annual review is one of the most valuable tools for career growth, job satisfaction, and long-term success for everyone involved. 

An annual review with your nanny family is not just about evaluation. It is an opportunity for reflection, alignment, and open communication. Whether your family initiated the conversation or you requested it, preparation is key to making the most of this important milestone.

1) Why an Annual Review with Your Nanny Family Matters

An annual review with your nanny family creates space for intentional conversation outside the rush of daily routines. It allows everyone to pause, assess what is working, and discuss how the role can continue to evolve in a healthy way.

For nannies, an annual review provides clarity around expectations, recognition for your hard work, and an appropriate time to discuss compensation, benefits, or schedule changes. For families, it helps ensure their childcare needs are being met and that communication remains strong.

When annual reviews happen consistently year after year, misunderstandings are reduced, and trust deepens. This structure supports longer-lasting placements and a more positive working relationship.

2) How to Prepare for an Annual Review with Your Nanny Family

a) Step One: Reflect on the Past Year

Before your annual review, take time to reflect on the past year. Write down highlights, challenges, and moments where you felt particularly proud of your work. Consider questions such as:

• What responsibilities have expanded since you were hired
• What routines or systems have you helped improve
• What skills have you developed
• What challenges did you navigate successfully

Documenting these details helps you clearly articulate your value during the annual review with your nanny family. It also ensures important accomplishments are not overlooked simply because they have become part of everyday life.

b) Step Two: Prepare Talking Points and Goals

An annual review with your nanny family should be a two-way conversation. Come prepared with thoughtful talking points that reflect both your experience and your future goals.

Consider sharing what you enjoy most about your role, areas where you feel confident, and areas where you would welcome additional guidance or resources. If you have professional goals such as taking on more responsibility, pursuing training, or adjusting your schedule, this is the appropriate time to discuss them.

Having goals prepared shows professionalism and investment in the role. Families often appreciate when nannies approach an annual review with intention rather than waiting passively for feedback.

c) Step Three: Be Ready to Receive Feedback

Receiving feedback can feel vulnerable, but it is a critical part of an annual review with your nanny family. Go into the conversation with an open mindset. Feedback is not a personal criticism but an opportunity to grow and align expectations.

Listen actively, ask clarifying questions when needed, and avoid becoming defensive. If something surprises you, it is okay to ask for examples or time to reflect. Showing emotional maturity during an annual review builds trust and demonstrates professionalism.

d) Step Four: Discuss Compensation and Benefits Thoughtfully

Many nannies wonder whether it is appropriate to discuss pay during an annual review with their nanny family. In most cases, yes! Annual reviews are the appropriate time to discuss raises, bonuses, benefits, or role adjustments.

If you plan to discuss compensation, come prepared with clear reasoning. Reference expanded responsibilities, additional certifications gained that add to the value you contribute to the household, or longevity in the role. Keep the conversation respectful and grounded in facts rather than emotion.

Even if compensation changes are not immediately possible, an annual review with your nanny family can open the door to future planning and transparency.

e) Step Five: Clarify Next Steps and Follow Up

Before concluding the annual review with your nanny family, make sure there is clarity around next steps. This may include agreed-upon goals, changes to responsibilities, or timelines for follow-up discussions.

It can be helpful to summarize the conversation in a brief follow-up message. This reinforces accountability and ensures everyone leaves the annual review with a shared understanding.

3) Final Thoughts

An annual review with your nanny family is a sign of a healthy working relationship. It shows that both parties value communication, growth, and mutual respect. While it may feel unfamiliar at first, approaching your annual review with preparation and confidence can transform it into a powerful career tool.

When you treat an annual review as an opportunity rather than an obstacle, you position yourself as a true professional and strengthen the foundation for long-term success.