Nanny tips for the summer holidays: how to keep the structure in place

Summer holidays with a Nanny? Discover how to keep structure, plan fun activities and enjoy a carefree summer.

For many families the summer holidays are a wonderful time, but also a logistical challenge. School is out, the usual structure has gone and children have more energy than ever. If you work and have a Nanny, summer is the ideal moment to make clear arrangements. Here are the best tips from The Family Assistant.

Plan holidays early

Discuss with your Nanny in spring when he or she will take holiday and how the summer weeks will be arranged. This avoids surprises in July and gives you plenty of time to arrange temporary cover if needed.

Create a summer programme together

Involve the Nanny in planning activities. The swimming pool, museum visits, day trips, playing outdoors: a varied programme keeps children happy and the Nanny motivated. Make a weekly plan with fixed and free moments so that a pleasant rhythm remains.

Keep the basic routine, even during the holidays

Children sleep better and are calmer when certain anchor points stay the same: breakfast at the same time, a set moment for rest in the afternoon and a regular bedtime. Freedom and structure can go perfectly well together, and the Nanny plays a key role in this.

Give the Nanny room for initiative

A good Nanny has ideas and energy of her or his own. Give him or her the freedom to suggest and plan activities. This increases involvement and means more fun for the children. Trust always works both ways.

Evaluate after the summer

The end of the summer holidays is a good moment to talk with the Nanny about how it went. What worked? What could be better? That open communication strengthens your collaboration for the whole year. The Family Assistant is always here to advise.