Thoughtful Gifts for Nannies: What They Really Appreciate
There’s this moment every December—a pause right in the middle of the holiday chaos—when families suddenly remember something deeply important:
“We wouldn’t have survived this year without our nanny.”
It’s true in the most human way.
Nannies show up not just in routines, but in the quiet in-betweens: the meltdowns, the bedtime negotiations, the sticky fingers, the last-minute schedule shifts. They show up when parents are stressed, tired, or overwhelmed. They show up when the baby is teething, when school calls unexpectedly, when the morning coffee spills, and when parents whisper “thank you” for the third time that week.
A thoughtful gift isn’t just a holiday gesture—it’s a recognition.
A way of saying:
“I see what you do.
I see who you are to our children.
And we’re grateful.”
This guide shares meaningful, appreciated, real-life gift ideas that nannies have said—over and over—they truly love.
Why Thoughtful Gifts Matter More Than You Think
Nannies invest emotionally. Deeply.
They love your children, advocate for them, protect them, and often carry the emotional weight of the day so parents can work, rest, or breathe.
According to a survey by the International Nanny Association, the majority of nannies say that feeling valued is one of the biggest factors in long-term job satisfaction.
A thoughtful gift communicates that value.
It builds the relationship.
It makes a nanny feel seen—not as an employee, but as a person who matters.
1. The Gift Nannies Appreciate Most: A Holiday Bonus
Let’s start with the honest truth.
A holiday bonus is the number one most appreciated gift.
Not because it’s expected, but because it reaffirms professional respect.
Many families choose to give:
One week of pay
Two weeks of pay
A set holiday bonus amount
The team at care-industry expert HomePay breaks down typical bonus structures and reminds families that bonuses are standard in professional domestic employment.
A bonus says:
“You are an essential part of our family’s life.”
It’s a practical gift, yes.
But it’s also deeply emotional.
2. Personalized Gifts That Say “We Really Know You”
There’s something magical about a personalized gift—something crafted, chosen, or customized just for them.
Ideas that feel authentic:
A monogrammed tote (teachers love them, nannies do too)
A custom illustrated portrait of the nanny with your children
A personalized water bottle or Stanley-style tumbler
A nameplate necklace or subtle jewelry
A personalized planner
Families often share that these gifts bring tears—in the best way.
For affordable custom items, families love browsing:
• Etsy → search “nanny gift personalized”
• Minted → https://www.minted.com (for stationery, planners, prints)
A personalized gift says:
“We know what you love.
We pay attention.”
And that alone makes it incredibly meaningful.
3. Self-Care Gifts That Help Nannies Recharge
Nannies spend their days pouring into others.
Self-care gives some of that energy back.
Thoughtful ideas:
Massage or spa gift card
Manicure/pedicure gift card
Cozy weighted blanket
At-home spa set (candles, bath soak, plush robe)
A subscription to Calm or Headspace for daily mindfulness
Monthly wellness boxes like TheraBox or FabFitFun
According to the American Institute of Stress, caregiving roles are emotionally demanding and benefit greatly from structured self-care.
These gifts support their wellbeing—not just their job.
4. Practical Gifts Nannies Use Daily
Some nannies don’t want luxury.
They want practicality.
These gifts are perfect for nannies who love function over fluff:
A high-quality lunch bag
Warm winter gear (gloves, hat, insulated jacket)
A pair of durable, comfortable shoes
A travel mug that actually keeps coffee hot
Blue-light–blocking glasses
A high-quality backpack
Outdoor winter gear recommendations can be researched using the REI Winter Guide, which breaks down insulated fabrics and weather-proofing.
Practical gifts say:
“I see what your day really looks like—and I want to make it easier.”
5. Gifts That Support Their Passions
Nannies are whole people with passions and dreams that go beyond childcare.
Families often forget that a gift can encourage those passions:
A photography class
A gift card to Michael’s or JoAnn Fabrics
A Kindle or Audible subscription (especially helpful for commutes)
Craft kits, art supplies, journaling tools
Baking supplies or cooking classes
Dance classes or music lessons
You can browse ideas at:
• Skillshare → https://www.skillshare.com
• MasterClass → https://www.masterclass.com
Supporting their hobbies says:
“You matter outside of work.”
And nannies truly appreciate that.
6. Sentimental Gifts From the Kids
Nannies always say the same thing:
“Gifts from the kids mean the world.”
These don’t have to be fancy or expensive. They just have to be from the heart.
Some tear-jerking favorites:
A handprint ornament
A framed drawing from the children
A homemade card with real, unfiltered kid handwriting
A scrapbook of photos from the year
A video message from the kids sharing things they love about their nanny
Nannies treasure these forever.
Some even save them in boxes or binders for years.
This is one of the sweetest ways to say:
“You’re part of our story.”
7. Experience Gifts They’ll Never Forget
Instead of a physical item, consider something they can enjoy:
Theater tickets
A weekend getaway
A brunch or dinner gift card
A local bookstore gift card
A museum or botanical garden membership
A wine-tasting or painting night
Experience gifts are powerful because they tell nannies:
“You deserve rest, adventure, and joy.”
They help nannies reclaim space for themselves in the midst of a busy season.
8. A Warm Letter of Appreciation
This one might be the most underrated gift on the list.
A thoughtful letter—written by a parent, caregiver, or child—can mean more than anything bought in a store.
Write about:
A moment when your nanny saved the day
A time they made your child feel understood
A challenge you were able to overcome because of them
A quality they bring that you deeply admire
Specific ways they impact your family
Why your children love them
Letters like this often become keepsakes.
Some nannies keep them posted on their fridge.
Some tuck them into planner pockets.
Some save them for years.
Words matter.
Especially when they come from the heart.
9. For Live-In Nannies: Home-Focused Gifts
Live-in nannies appreciate gifts that make their living space feel more like home:
Soft bedding
A new duvet or comforter
A high-quality pillow
Kitchen accessories
A cozy robe + slippers
Warm lighting or bedside lamps
Houseware inspiration can be browsed at:
• West Elm → https://www.westelm.com
• Target Home → https://www.target.com/c/home (budget-friendly)
Comfort is a love language—especially during winter.
10. When You’re Unsure: Ask What They Actually Want
This is the most practical advice of all.
Ask your nanny:
“Is there anything you’ve been wanting lately?”
“Do you prefer something sentimental, practical, or fun?”
“Any stores or brands you love?”
Nine times out of ten, they will happily tell you.
And you’ll give the perfect gift, every time.
To guide families, the Harvard Business Review actually wrote about how gift-giving in professional relationships improves trust and communication:
HBR – The Art of Giving Gifts at Work
Asking promotes clarity.
Clarity builds trust.
And trust builds long-lasting, beautiful working relationships.
11. Gifts to Avoid (Nannies Agree on These!)
Not every gift lands well.
Here’s what nannies commonly don’t love receiving:
Clothing picked out without asking for size
Self-help books unless they specifically asked
Anything implying grooming, weight loss, or appearance pressure
Re-gifted items
Scented lotions or candles if you don’t know their preferences
Overly personal items
“World’s Best Nanny” novelty mugs (cute but often unused)
When in doubt, choose thoughtful over generic.
12. How to Wrap the Gift Moment Gracefully
The moment matters.
Not just the gift.
Here’s how families can make the gift exchange meaningful:
Give the gift privately—or with children present if appropriate
Avoid rushing through it
Express gratitude verbally
Let them open the gift if they want
Pair it with a card or letter
A gift is a gesture.
But the moment is the memory.
Final Thoughts: Gifts That Come From the Heart Mean the Most
Nannies don’t expect extravagant gifts.
They don’t measure your love by the price tag.
They measure it by thoughtfulness, sincerity, and intention.
A thoughtful gift says:
“You matter here.”
“You are part of our family.”
“You’ve cared for our children, and this is our way of caring for you.”
And that message—more than any wrapped present—means everything.
How Hunny Nanny Agency Supports Families & Nannies All Year Long
Whether it’s winter, spring, or the rush of back-to-school season, Hunny Nanny Agency is committed to strengthening the bond between families and caregivers.
We help:
Families find nannies who truly fit
Nannies find families who value their work
Both sides create healthy, respectful working relationships
Establish clear expectations, contracts, wages & holiday guidelines
Offer seasonal resources, safety tips, and professional support
We believe that when nannies feel appreciated, children thrive.
And families flourish.
Explore how we support families.
Whether you need help hiring, supporting, or celebrating your nanny— Hunny Nanny Agency is here to make your family’s journey smoother, safer, and more joyful.
