You walk in at 6 pm and ask, “How was the day?” She says, “Fine.” You nod, and then spend the evening wondering whether the baby napped, ate or cried.
It’s an ordinary scene, and it’s the main reason new parents feel anxious about hiring a nanny in Midstream. The fix is simpler than you’d think.
What a nanny actually does
A nanny is an experienced childcare professional who looks after your children as part of your household’s routine. Unlike a short-term helper, she usually works consistent hours and builds a long-term relationship with the family.
Typically, she handles:
- Feeding, sleep and play routines for babies and toddlers
- School runs and after-school care
- Daily structure that keeps children calm and secure
- Communication with you about how the day went
An au pair is usually a younger, more flexible helper. A nanny brings more formal, long-term experience, which matters most with infants. You can read more about their differences here.
Why spoken updates fall short
Tired parents ask vague questions, and busy nannies give short answers. Neither person is doing anything wrong. But important details, like a missed feed or a change in mood, disappear.
The Shared Log (Our Expert Framework)
The counter-intuitive idea: write it down, even if you speak daily.
- Choose a format: a shared note on your phones, or a small notebook on the counter.
- Agree on five fields: feeds or meals, naps, mood, anything unusual, and what’s needed tomorrow.
- Keep it to two minutes. If it takes longer, it won’t last.
- Read it together on day one, and add your own notes too.
A written log reduces anxiety and builds trust quickly. It also protects her: it’s a record of good care. In the interview, ask: How would you like to keep me updated through the day?
Her answer tells you how she thinks about partnership..
What to Check Before You Say Yes
Whoever you choose, you should be able to answer yes to each of these:
- Identity and police clearance have been verified
- Experience with children has been seen in practice, not just claimed
- Settling-in plan is agreed (start with shorter days)
- Hours, duties, leave and house rules are written down
- Accommodation or travel arrangements are sorted
At Kith, we handle the vetting, and our nannies train through the Kith Academy.
How to Brief Your Au Pair in the First Week
- Introduce her at home while you are there for the first few days
- Share your baby’s routines and comfort habits
- Set up the Shared Log together
- Book a check-in at the end of week one, and again at month one
Frequently asked questions
Ready to Find Your Nanny
The right nanny doesn’t just cover the gaps. She gives your family a calm, predictable day. Join Kith and we’ll match you with a vetted, experienced nanny who fits your home
Want to see exactly how it works for Midstream? Read about our Nannies in Midstream service.
If you’d like a tutor for your child’ schoolwork or assistance with homework, our Private Tutor in Southdowns: The 12-Week
Exam Plan details our expert knowledge framework in this service.
