What to Tell Your Nanny: The Ultimate Onboarding Checklist
Cedar Care offers families hands-on support with onboarding, from customized checklists to parent-nanny transition planning. Explore our Concierge Services.
Hiring a nanny is only half the journey — the other half is onboarding them well. A smooth transition helps your nanny feel confident, helps your child feel secure, and ensures you get the support you’re investing in.
Here’s a nanny onboarding checklist we recommend for NYC families:
1. Daily Routines
Wake-up and bedtimes
Nap schedules
Meals and snacks
Favorite playtime activities
2. House Rules
Screen time limits
Discipline approach
Safety guidelines (e.g., no sharp objects, babyproofed zones)
3. Medical & Emergency Info
Allergies and medications
Pediatrician contact
Emergency contacts
Nearest urgent care/hospital
4. Household Logistics
Where supplies are kept (diapers, wipes, bottles, snacks)
Laundry routines (if applicable)
Transportation rules (stroller, car seat, subway/taxi)
5. Family Values & Style
Your parenting philosophy
Cultural or religious practices
Language preferences at home
6. Communication Preferences
Do you want updates via text throughout the day?
A daily recap?
Photos/videos of milestones?
Why this matters: Onboarding is not about control — it’s about clarity. When your nanny has the full picture, they can focus on what matters: caring for your child.