Why Part-Time Nanny Hires Can Create More Problems than Solutions

As a household staffing professional with over two decades of experience helping families find reliable and professional in-home child care, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles many families face when seeking part-time help. While part-time care may seem like the most logical and economical solution for families who don’t require 40 hours of care each week, the reality is that part-time placements often present more challenges than solutions.

If you’ve found yourself frustrated with the process of securing consistent, quality part-time care, you’re not alone. Here are a few reasons why part-time nanny arrangements can be difficult—and why full-time care may actually serve your family better in the long run.

The Pool of Qualified Part-Time Nannies is Small

The truth is, most professional nannies are seeking full-time employment. For career caregivers, stability, consistency, and financial security are key priorities—and part-time positions often don’t meet those needs. This means your candidate pool for part-time roles is significantly smaller and can include individuals with less experience or commitment.

Built-In Back-Up Care Provides Peace of Mind

When you hire a full-time nanny, you’re not just hiring someone to care for your children during specific hours—you’re hiring a reliable partner. Full-time caregivers are more likely to offer flexibility during emergencies, school closures, and last-minute schedule changes. If your child gets sick or you have to stay late at work, a full-time nanny can step in without it being an exception to the norm.

Full-Time Nannies Can Fill in the Gaps When School is Closed

Summer break, in-service days, holidays—school calendars aren’t exactly parent-friendly. With part-time help, those days can become a logistical nightmare. A full-time nanny, however, is already built into your routine. There’s no need to scramble for coverage or patch together camps and babysitters. Your nanny is there, ready to adapt to your child’s changing schedule.

Help Around the House While the Kids are in School

If your children are in school for part of the day, a full-time nanny can use that time to assist with light housekeeping, meal prep, kids’ laundry, and organizational tasks. This not only enhances the overall efficiency of your household but also allows you to enjoy more quality time with your family in the evenings and on weekends.

Your Summer Solution is Already Secured

One of the most stressful times for working parents is figuring out summer child care. Camps are expensive, fill up quickly, and don’t always align with work hours. With a full-time nanny, you have a built-in summer solution. Your children can stay in the comfort of their home environment with someone they know and trust.

Longevity of Hire Increases with Full-Time Positions

Nannies who accept full-time roles are typically looking for long-term placements. This means you’re less likely to face the revolving door of caregivers that often comes with part-time hires. Children benefit greatly from consistent, stable care—and parents benefit from not having to constantly restart the hiring process.

Lower Hourly Rate Compared to Part-Time

It may seem counterintuitive, but full-time care often comes with a lower hourly rate. That’s because full-time roles are more attractive to nannies, and in exchange for guaranteed hours and benefits, they’re often willing to negotiate a slightly lower hourly wage. Part-time roles, with fewer hours and less security, tend to demand a premium.

Less Turnover, More Flexibility

Full-time nannies are more invested in their role and more likely to grow with your family. They’re also more inclined to offer schedule flexibility, help with travel or overnights, and accommodate evolving needs. With part-time care, you may find yourself constantly adjusting to someone else’s availability, rather than having a caregiver who adjusts to yours.

While part-time care can work for some families, it’s important to weigh the true costs—both financial and emotional—of an arrangement that lacks consistency and flexibility. At Morningside Nannies, we believe in creating solutions that truly support families, and often that means helping families see the long-term benefits of investing in full-time care.

If you’re unsure what care arrangement is best for your family, we’re here to help you explore your options and find the right fit.

Michelle LaRowe is an award-winning nanny, parenting author, and the agency director of Morningside Nannies. With over 25 years of industry experience, Michelle is committed to helping families find exceptional in-home childcare solutions that meet their unique needs. To learn more about Michelle visit www.MichelleLaRowe.com. 

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