When it’s time to say goodbye to a beloved nanny, one of the best ways you can support them in their next chapter is by writing a thoughtful and detailed reference letter. A strong letter can make all the difference in helping them secure their next great role.
Here’s how to craft a glowing recommendation that truly highlights their value.
- Start with a Warm Introduction
Begin by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with your nanny. Share how long they worked with your family and your reason for writing the letter.
You can say something like:
“My name is [Your Name], and I had the pleasure of employing [Nanny’s Name] as our nanny for the past three years. During that time, they became an invaluable part of our family, providing exceptional care for our two children. I wholeheartedly recommend them for any future childcare opportunities.”
- Outline Their Role and Responsibilities
Detail your nanny’s day-to-day duties, including the ages of the children they cared for and any special tasks they managed.
Consider including:
- The children’s ages when your nanny started and any milestones they helped support.
- Responsibilities such as school drop-offs, meal preparation, bedtime routines, and organizing playdates.
- Additional contributions like light housekeeping, tutoring, or driving children to activities.
- Any special skills, such as a CPR certification, multilingual abilities, or experience working with children with special needs.
Here’s how you might put it:
“[Nanny’s Name] cared for our two children, who were 3 and 7 when they began and handled everything from daily routines to educational activities. They planned enriching craft projects, ensured our youngest met developmental milestones, and even helped with homework. Their ability to manage busy schedules and adapt to our family’s needs was truly impressive.”
- Highlight Their Personal Qualities
Beyond responsibilities, a great reference letter should speak to your nanny’s character. Focus on qualities that made them exceptional:
- Reliability and trustworthiness
- Patience and the ability to handle challenges
- Warmth and a natural connection with children
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Creativity in engaging children through play and learning activities
A great way to phrase it:
“What truly sets [Nanny’s Name] apart is their warmth and dedication. Our children absolutely adored them, and we always felt at ease knowing they were in such caring hands. They were incredibly patient, even during toddler tantrums, and always found creative ways to make learning fun. Their ability to communicate effectively with both children and parents made them an invaluable part of our household.”
- Share a Personal Anecdote
A specific example can make your recommendation more compelling. Share a moment that highlights their commitment, problem-solving skills, or the positive impact they had on your family.
You can try saying:
“I will never forget the time our youngest was struggling with separation anxiety at preschool. [Nanny’s Name] created a ‘goodbye ritual’ that gave them comfort and confidence. Thanks to their patience and thoughtful approach, drop-offs became a breeze, and our child grew more independent.”
- End with a Strong Endorsement
Wrap up the letter with a clear and enthusiastic recommendation, reaffirming your nanny’s strengths and offering to be contacted for further information.
Consider saying something like:
“I cannot recommend [Nanny’s Name] highly enough. They are an exceptional caregiver who would be an asset to any family. Any child would be lucky to have them as a nanny. Please feel free to reach out at [your contact information] if you have any questions.”
A well-written reference letter can be a game-changer for a nanny seeking new opportunities. By taking the time to highlight their skills, character, and positive impact on your family, you’re not only helping them but also ensuring that another family finds an incredible caregiver.
With this guide, you’ll be able to craft a heartfelt and professional letter that truly reflects how special your nanny is!