10 Holiday Questions Nanny Employers Ask

The holiday season is here—a time of joy, celebration, and… a few scheduling curveballs.

At Morningside Nannies, we know the holidays bring unique questions about schedules, pay, expectations, and etiquette. To help you navigate the season with clarity and confidence, here are 10 of the most common questions nanny employers ask this time of year—along with guidance to support a smooth and cheerful season for everyone.

1. “Do I have to pay my nanny for holidays?”

Generally, yes. If paid holidays are included in your nanny’s agreement, they should be paid their normal wages for those days—even if your family isn’t using care.

2. “What if my nanny is off but I still need coverage?”

Many families experience schedule conflicts around the holidays. If your nanny is unavailable, consider making back-up care plans now, if she’s available and willing to work, be sure she is compensated fairly and legally.

3. “Do I owe holiday overtime if my nanny works extra?”

Your nanny is an hourly employee. As such, if she works more than 40 hours in a week, overtime pay is required under the FLSA. Holiday weeks often run long—plan accordingly. Live-in nannies in Texas are exempt from overtime, but still must be paid for all hours worked.

4. “Should I give my nanny a holiday bonus?”

Holiday bonuses are not required, but they are standard. Employers typically give between one to two week’s pay, sometimes more, depending on tenure and budget.

5. “What if we’re traveling and don’t need care—do I still pay?”

Yes. If your nanny is guaranteed weekly hours, she should be paid their normal wages even when care is not needed due to family travel.

6. “How do I handle my nanny traveling with our family?”

Holiday travel often means extra responsibilities. If your nanny joins you, remember travel time is paid, sleeping arrangements must be appropriate, and all working hours count toward overtime.

7. “Can I ask my nanny to work on a holiday?”

You may ask, but nannies are not required to work on holidays unless previously agreed upon. If they do work, many families provide holiday pay premiums. Remember, banking hours is discouraged and depending on timing, may be illegal.

8. “Do I still pay if my nanny gets sick over the holidays?”

If your nanny has paid sick days included in their agreement, those days should be honored like any other time of year.

9. “What’s the etiquette for gift-giving?”

Many families give a small gift alongside any bonus. Popular options include spa gift cards, thoughtful personalized items, or something that aligns with your nanny’s interests.

 

Communication is everything. Share your holiday plans early—schedule changes, hours needed, travel expectations, visitors in the home, and routines. Your nanny will appreciate the clarity and can plan accordingly.

We’re Here to Support You

If you have questions about your nanny’s schedule, holiday pay, bonuses, or planning care in the weeks ahead, we are happy to help.

← 10 Things Every Nanny Should Know |