A great babysitter or nanny can become one of the most important people in your child's life — and in yours. But that kind of trust is built deliberately, not by chance.

## Communicate expectations clearly from day one

Write a short house guide: where things are kept, your child's routine, food allergies, screen-time rules, emergency contacts. Spending 20 minutes on this saves dozens of awkward conversations later.

## Give feedback regularly — not just when something goes wrong

Check in after the first week. Ask what went well and what was confusing. Positive feedback is as important as corrections: it tells your caregiver what you value, and people do more of what gets noticed.

## Respect their time

Consistent late returns are one of the top reasons good caregivers leave families. If you're running late, message ahead. If it becomes a pattern, add a late fee to your agreement — it changes behaviour without hard conversations.

## Include them in milestone moments

When your child takes their first steps or says a new word, tell your caregiver. These shared celebrations build real connection and remind everyone why the work matters.

## Annual review

At least once a year, sit down for a proper conversation: what's working, what's changed, whether a pay increase is appropriate. Caregivers who feel valued — financially and personally — stay longer. Continuity is worth a lot to children.

The relationship is a two-way investment. The families who treat it that way almost always describe their childcare experience positively.