As the year winds down, ‘tis the season for many families to naturally reflect on what worked, what felt challenging, and what they want more of in the months ahead. This moment of reflection is also the perfect opportunity for a thoughtful nanny family check-in. Taking time before the New Year to align expectations, review routines, and discuss upcoming changes can prevent misunderstandings and create a stronger, more supportive working relationship for everyone involved.

A casual yet thoughtful check-in sets the tone for the year ahead. Instead of reacting to issues as they arise or down the line, families and nannies who communicate proactively often move forward with clarity, trust, and shared goals. Here is what to cover to make your end-of-year nanny family check-in truly effective.

1) Why a Pre-New Year Nanny Family Check-In Matters

Life changes quickly in a household with children. Schedules evolve, developmental needs shift, and family priorities grow. A nanny family check-in before the New Year gives both parties space to reflect on the past year while intentionally planning for the next one. It also reinforces the idea that the nanny is a valued professional and partner in your child’s care.

For nannies, a check-in provides clarity and reassurance. For families, it creates structure and accountability. When handled with care, these conversations strengthen long-term relationships and improve day-to-day collaboration.

2) Review the Past Year with Honesty and Appreciation

Start by looking back. This sets a positive foundation and reminds everyone of what is already working well.

Families can share:

• What they appreciated most about their nanny’s care
• Moments where the nanny made a meaningful impact
• Growth they have seen in their children over the year due to their support

Nannies can reflect on:

• What felt successful in the role
• Challenges that arose and how they were handled
• Skills or responsibilities they developed over the year
• Teamwork that felt particularly effective (i.e., a phrase parents and nannies incorporated or a new routine that was carried out) 

This part of the nanny family check-in should focus on appreciation and constructive feedback rather than criticism. Mutual respect makes every other conversation easier.

3) Discuss Any Changes Coming in the New Year

One of the most important parts of a check-in is reviewing what may change in the coming months. Even small adjustments can affect schedules, responsibilities, and expectations.

Topics to cover include:

• New school or activity schedules
• Changes in work hours or parental travel
• Shifts in children’s developmental needs
• Household changes such as a new baby, a move, or extended family involvement

Addressing these topics during check-ins allows both sides to prepare mentally and logistically rather than feeling caught off guard later.

4) Revisit Boundaries, Responsibilities, and Expectations

Over time, roles can blur without anyone realizing it. A nanny family check-in is the ideal moment to revisit boundaries and ensure expectations remain clear and fair.

This conversation might include:

• A review of core childcare duties
• Any additional tasks that have been added over time
• Clarity around off-hours communication
• Expectations during school breaks or holidays

If responsibilities have shifted significantly, this is also a natural moment to discuss compensation adjustments or role changes. A clear nanny family check-in helps prevent resentment down the road and keeps the working relationship professional.

5) Talk About Goals for the Year Ahead

A forward-focused check-in should include goal setting. These goals help everyone feel aligned and invested. They don’t need to be extensive, nor does there need to be a dozen of them. Setting 3-5 goals can make a huge difference in your effort as a team working towards the same things. 

Examples of goals include:

• Supporting a child through a developmental milestone
• Creating more structure around routines
• Improving communication systems
• Pursuing additional training or certifications

When families and nannies share goals during a nanny family check-in, they can work together intentionally rather than operating on assumptions.

6) Confirm Communication and Check-In Plans Going Forward

Finally, use the nanny family check-in to decide how communication will look in the new year. A  communication system that everyone adheres to prevents small issues from growing into larger problems.

Consider discussing:

• Preferred communication methods (i.e., texting for schedule changes and emergencies, face-to-face check-ins at the end of each day, a daily log, etc.)
• How often informal check-ins should happen
• Whether annual or mid-year reviews will be scheduled
• How concerns should be raised respectfully

Setting expectations during a check-in builds confidence and creates a predictable structure for addressing concerns.

7) Making the Nanny Family Check-In a Habit

Rather than viewing the nanny family check-in as a one-time task, families who treat it as a regular practice see better outcomes long-term. These conversations reinforce trust, reduce stress, and help everyone feel supported and heard.

As the New Year approaches, taking time for a thoughtful check-in is one of the most meaningful ways to invest in your household and your childcare relationship. When families and nannies move into the new year aligned and appreciated, everyone benefits, especially the children.