A nanny contract is one of the most important tools a family can put in place before welcoming a caregiver into their home. It protects your children, supports your caregiver, and gives everyone a clear roadmap for how the household will work day to day, including what to expect from uncomfortable-to-discuss specifics (i.e., sick pay). Without a nanny contract, even the most well-intentioned working relationship can experience misunderstandings, blurred boundaries, or misaligned expectations. Establishing clarity from the beginning sets the tone for trust, professionalism, and long-term success.

A nanny contract does not have to be complicated, but it does need to be overly comprehensive. Here is exactly what every family should include.

1) Why a Nanny Contract Matters

Many families begin with a verbal agreement, but childcare is far too important to leave to chance and a “he said, she said” exchange. A nanny contract creates shared understanding, keeps communication clear, and gives both parties something to reference when questions come up. It helps avoid conflict, ensures legal compliance, and provides a sense of stability for your nanny, which leads to better care for your children.

A nanny contract is not about rigidity. It is about setting everyone up for success and protecting everyone’s best interests. 

2) The Non-Negotiables Every Nanny Contract Should Include

a) Detailed Job Duties

A nanny contract needs to outline expectations clearly. Include:

• Childcare responsibilities
• Household duties related to the children
• Any additional tasks such as meal prep, laundry, or organization
• Screen time policies, routines, and discipline guidelines

Of course, flexibility is a part of the job. But clarity in writing reduces frustration and prevents the feeling that tasks are shifting without discussion.

b) Work Schedule and Overtime

Your nanny’s schedule should be written out clearly, including start and end times for each day. Since most nannies are classified as hourly employees, a nanny contract must include:

• Overtime rates based on your state’s legal requirements
• Weekend or holiday rates
• How schedule changes are communicated
• Expectations for flexibility (within reason, like a weekly date night, not unlimited flexibility)

When families outline this from the beginning, they build trust and protect the nanny from unpredictable hours and burnout, which benefits everyone. 

c) Guaranteed Hours

One of the most critical parts of a nanny contract is guaranteed hours. Guaranteed hours ensure your nanny receives consistent pay even when you come home early, travel without your nanny, etc. They create financial stability and reduce turnover, which benefits your entire family and your nanny. Guaranteed hours are industry standard for professional nannies. 

d) Driving Expectations and Car Policies

If your nanny will be driving, a nanny contract should cover:

• Whether the nanny will use their car or a family car
• Mileage reimbursement
• Insurance requirements
• Safety rules such as car seats, emergency kits, or drive-free zones

Driving is a high liability responsibility, so transparency is essential.

e) Travel Policies

If your family travels and expects your nanny to travel with you, include:

• Daily or weekly travel rates
• Per diems
• Sleep arrangements
• Travel days counted as work days
• Responsibilities during travel

A nanny contract ensures the nanny knows exactly what to expect before boarding a plane with your family. 

f) Sick Days, Holidays, Retirement, and PTO

Your nanny needs clarity on time off. To create a nanny contract, include:

• Paid sick days
• Vacation days
• Paid holidays
• Notice requirements for requesting time off
• Retirement

This helps prevent last-minute stress for parents and shows respect for your nanny’s well-being.

g) Boundaries and Communication Policies

A nanny contract can also define:

• How and when parents want updates
• Expectations around phone use
• Confidentiality requirements
• Rules for visitors in the home

Clear boundaries build a strong, respectful working relationship.

3) Fine-Tuning Your Nanny Contract

Every family is unique, so tailor the nanny contract to reflect your home, values, and routines. Review it together with your nanny, invite questions, and update it annually as your children grow. A contract is a living document and should evolve over time.

A nanny contract is an investment in harmony, clarity, and stability. With the right foundation, your nanny can focus fully on caring for your children, and your family can enjoy predictability and peace of mind. When everyone understands their role, childcare becomes smoother, communication becomes easier, and the home environment becomes happier for everyone.