Asking for a raise as a nanny can feel uncomfortable, even for experienced professionals who have done it before. For nannies, the relationship with a boss is often deeply personal, which can make conversations about compensation feel even more intimidating. Still, asking for a raise is a normal and important part of building a sustainable career in childcare. When done thoughtfully, it strengthens communication, reinforces professionalism, and ensures your role continues to reflect your value.

An annual review with your nanny family is often the best time for asking for a raise. It creates a natural space to reflect on the past year, discuss growth, and align expectations for the year ahead. If you are considering asking for a raise, preparation and timing matter. These three tips will help you approach the conversation with confidence and clarity.

1) Tie Asking for a Raise to Your Annual Review

One of the biggest mistakes nannies make when asking for a raise is bringing it up unexpectedly. Compensation conversations land best when they are part of a structured check-in, which is why an annual review with your nanny family is such a powerful opportunity.

If your family already schedules annual reviews, let them know ahead of time that you would like to discuss role growth and compensation. This signals professionalism and gives them time to prepare. If they do not typically hold reviews, you can initiate one by framing it as a chance to reflect on the year and plan for the future.

When asking for a raise as a nanny during an annual review, position it as part of a larger conversation about how your role has evolved. You are not simply asking for more money. You are discussing how your responsibilities, experience, and contributions have grown. This approach helps families see the request as reasonable and well-timed.

2) Come Prepared with Specific Contributions and Growth

Preparation is the most important part of asking for a raise. Vague statements like “I work really hard” are rarely effective. Families respond best when they can clearly see how your work has added value to their household.

Before meeting with your nanny family, take time to write down your contributions over the past year. Consider areas such as consistency, reliability, and initiative. Think about routines you have improved, skills you have developed, and moments where you went above and beyond. Examples might include supporting developmental milestones, managing schedules more independently, handling additional responsibilities, or navigating challenging transitions with calm professionalism.

When asking for a raise, connect these examples directly to your request. This shows that your ask is grounded in results, not emotion. It also reinforces that you take your role seriously and view nannying as a long-term profession.

3) Know Your Numbers and Ask Clearly

Many nannies struggle with asking for a raise because they are unsure what to ask for. Before the conversation, research typical rates for your role, experience level, and location. Consider whether your responsibilities have expanded in ways that justify a raise, such as additional children, longer hours, or household management tasks.

When the time comes, be clear and respectful. Avoid apologizing or minimizing your request. A confident but calm tone goes a long way. You might say that, based on your contributions over the past year and market standards, you would like to discuss an increase in pay. Being direct helps avoid confusion and shows that you value transparent communication.

It is also important to stay open to discussion. Asking for a raise does not always result in an immediate yes. Some families may need time to consider budgets or timelines. Even if the answer is not what you hoped for, the conversation itself sets the foundation for future growth.

4) What If the Answer Is No?

Not every conversation about asking for a raise will end with an immediate increase. If the answer is no, ask thoughtful follow-up questions. You can inquire about what goals or milestones would support a future raise and when it would be appropriate to revisit the conversation.

This keeps the dialogue constructive and positions you as a professional invested in growth. It also helps you decide whether the role continues to meet your long-term needs.

5) Asking for a Raise as a Nanny Is a Professional Skill

Learning how to ask for a raise is part of building a sustainable nanny career. When you prepare thoughtfully, tie the conversation to an annual review, and communicate clearly, you demonstrate confidence and self-respect. Families often appreciate this clarity, even if the conversation feels uncomfortable at first.

Asking for a raise is not about demanding more. It is about aligning your compensation with the value you bring to your nanny family. With the right preparation and timing, asking for a raise can strengthen your working relationship and support your continued success.

If you are unsure how to approach your annual review or compensation conversations, working with an experienced agency can provide guidance and advocacy. The right support helps ensure your role continues to grow with you.