Navigating COVID-19 in 2024: Guidelines for Parents Working with Nannies

In many ways, it may feel like COVID-19 is just a faint memory. And while the post-pandemic COVID landscape is constantly evolving, current numbers show that infections are on the rise. As a nanny agency who has been in the thick of it with families and nannies since day one in 2020, we want to take a look at what the best practices look like in 2024, and how best to approach COVID questions in the working relationship. 

• As of 2024, COVID-19 remains a concern with the prevalence of new variants such as JN1. Although severe disease is less frequent due to vaccinations and prior infections, it’s still important to be mindful of infections. Parents and nannies should stay updated with CDC guidelines and local health advisories​.

​COVID-guidelines for working with a nanny in 2024

1. Effective Communication

   Open and honest communication between families and nannies is more important than ever. As society’s approaches to COVID change, make sure you bring up any such changes with your nanny. Talk about symptom tracking, daily routines, and any changes in your family's health status. Establish a clear understanding of what to do if someone in the household shows COVID-19 symptoms​, and the same for the nanny. 

2. Put it in the nanny contract

   Your nanny contract is always your safest bet to clear communication with a nanny and to avoiding any major conflicts. Include COVID-provisions at the beginning of a working relationship – or add them to an existing contract – so that everyone knows what to do if they get sick or what to expect if someone else does. Include guidelines regarding pay while the nanny can’t work, when to come back after illness, and general approaches to limiting spread of illness. 

3. Consider ​Vaccination and Health Safety 

   Discuss vaccination preferences and expectations openly. While the COVID-19 vaccine is voluntary, it joins other essential vaccines (like the flu shot or measles vaccination) in ensuring the health safety of your household and the nanny​, especially if either party is particularly vulnerable or immunocompromised. 

   Also keep an open line of communication regarding behaviors “out in the world” – is everyone in agreement regarding indoor activities, frequent hand-washing, and the sniffles? Open communication builds trust, a vital cornerstone in the working relationship between nannies and families, which is a win any way you spin it. 

4. Emergency Preparedness

   With the uncertainty of the pandemic – and frankly, all of the infections currently floating around as our immune systems build themselves up again – having an emergency plan for childcare is crucial. Line up backup care options and discuss potential flexibility in your nanny’s schedule, especially in scenarios like exposure at school or the need for remote learning​.

5. Mind the Work-from-Home Dynamics 

   If you are still working from home, set clear boundaries and communicate daily plans with the nanny. It's essential to manage expectations for both the children and the nanny to ensure a smooth working environment​.

   Remember, this is the nanny’s place of work, and having you in the middle of it may be disruptive and create a lot of tumult when your kiddo wants to spend time with you but can’t. 

🌟 Bonus advice: Virtual Interviews and Meetings 🌟

If  you are in the hiring process, consider conducting initial interviews and regular meetings with potential nannies via video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype. This approach minimizes physical contact and helps maintain social distancing​, until you’ve found candidates you feel wonderful about and definitely want to meet in person. 

Need help?

Navigating the pandemic as a parent working with a nanny requires adaptability, clear communication, and a commitment to health and safety. At the end of the day, it’s about building trust between you and your nanny, and creating a safe environment where everyone can be their best selves (not least your kiddos!). 

But it’s not easy to go it alone! If you want a hand to hold through figuring out what works for your family and how to put it into a job contract, we’ve got you. Fill out a family application today and let us know what you are looking for in the way of childcare – full-time, regular part-time, or maybe that emergency back up care when your nanny gets sick – and a dedicated member of our staff will reach out to you.  

For more detailed information and updates, be sure to check the CDC's website – or just join the Smart Sitting network!