National Nanny Recognition Week
You may have never heard of National Nanny Recognition Week, but in the Nanny World it is kind of a big deal!
This year NNRW is celebrated September 18-24th.
We are actually facing a nanny shortage as of the last two years. Hundreds of nannies have left the profession because they are feeling burnt out. That is way too many qualified, incredible, caring nannies off of the market, which lowers your family’s percentage of finding the best long-term caregiver for your family.Why are nannies feeling so burnt out? Most nannies who have left the nanny profession say that they felt overworked and underappreciated by the families they work for. When asked what would have improved their chances of staying in their nanny positions, recognition ranked pretty high on the list.
We know that our day to day lives are often full and chaotic and we could possibly lose our head if it were not attached to the rest of our bodies. Sometimes we forget to say the simple thank you to those we are closest to. It’s easy to just expect our families, our friends and even our employees to live up to the standards that we set for them without the knowledge that we see and appreciate their hard work.
National Nanny Recognition Week, or NNRW as it is affectionately called in the Nanny World, is a week that reminds you to take time out of your busy lives and recognize your nanny, who probably more often than not, goes above and beyond with what you’ve asked them to do just because they love your littles and your family so much.
Now that you’ve heard about NNRW, you’re probably wondering how you can recognize your own nanny.
A Simple Thank You: A sweet card with all of the things you are thankful for that your nanny does for your family is a wonderful way to show your appreciation for a nanny.
Involve the Kiddos: Have them make something that will express how much they love and appreciate having your nanny in their lives.
Special Treats: Sometimes getting that iced mocha latte will fill more than just someone's cup.
A Little Gift: It’s always wonderful to come into work and see a bouquet of flowers on the counter and a card with your name on the envelope. A mug with a sweet saying, costume jewelry, a framed photo, anything along these lines would make anyone feel appreciated.
Car Detail: For our nannies transporting those kiddos, we can guarantee you there is some crushed goldfish in all those nooks and crannies!
A Nanny-Geared Gift- Nanny Tees & Nanny Cards are wonderful!
A Meal- Order your nannies favorite lunch to be delivered, we always say that food is a direct way to get to someone’s heart and make them feel loved!
Gift Cards- Did you say coffee? Target? A massage? We’re all in for all of these.
Invest in Their Education- Pay for a training that will benefit them in caring for your family, there are many wonderful resources online to help build your nanny’s resume and help you feel more safe and secure. Newborn Care Solutions, INA Conference, and Nanny Palooza are fan favorites among career nannies.
A Little Extra PTO- Nothing says how much you appreciate someone like giving them an extra day to mentally, physically and emotionally decompress. Adding an extra day of paid time may be a breath of fresh air for your nanny!
Essentially, NNRW is simply taking time to show gratitude for your very own Mary Poppins that pours into your family. A nanny’s love runs deep and their support is invaluable. Small acts go a long way in not only showing your nanny your gratitude but investing in the longevity of having that special gem work with your kiddos!
