What to Expect in Your First Week When Starting With a Nanny

February marks the start of the school year in New Zealand, and it is one of the most common times for families to be starting with a nanny. New routines, new classrooms and new childcare arrangements can feel overwhelming. The first week sets the tone for trust, communication and long term success.

Here is what you can realistically expect, and how to make it a smooth transition for everyone.

1. The First Day Will Feel Big, and That Is Normal

The first morning often feels like the first day of school all over again. Children may be excited, shy or even unsettled. Parents can feel a mix of relief and anxiety.

Expect:

• Extra questions from your child
• A little clinginess at drop off
• Lots of reassurance needed

This does not mean it is not working. It simply means everyone is adjusting.

Tip: Keep goodbyes calm and confident. Children take their cues from you.

2. There Will Be Questions About Everything

When starting with a nanny, expect plenty of practical questions in week one.

For example:

• What is your child’s after school routine?
• Where are spare uniforms kept?
• How do you prefer homework to be managed?
• What are your expectations around screen time?

February routines can still be settling, especially with new school timetables. Be open to refining things together.

The best nanny relationships are built on clarity, not assumptions.

3. Your Nanny Is Observing and Learning

During the first week, your nanny is:

• Learning your child’s personality
• Understanding family dynamics
• Watching how you communicate
• Working out the rhythm of the home

It is less about perfection and more about connection.

If February marks a new school year, your nanny is also learning teachers’ names, pick up points and extracurricular schedules. It is a lot to absorb in just a few days.

4. Expect Small Tweaks to the Routine

Even if you have carefully planned everything, real life may look slightly different.

Maybe:

• School pick up takes longer than expected
• Your child needs downtime before homework
• Afternoon snacks need adjusting

Rather than seeing this as disruption, view it as fine tuning.

A short check in at the end of each day during the first week can help you both stay aligned.

5. Communication Is Key in Week One

The most successful families starting with a nanny prioritise communication early.

Set expectations around:

• Daily updates, text or in person
• Feedback, both positive and constructive
• Emergency contacts
• Boundaries and privacy

If something feels unclear, address it early and kindly. Small misunderstandings are easier to fix in week one than month three.

6. Your Child May Test Boundaries

It is common for children to test limits with a new caregiver.

They may:

• Push back on instructions
• Compare the nanny to you
• Try to negotiate different rules

This is a normal adjustment phase.

The most important thing is consistency. If you and your nanny agree on expectations, your child will settle more quickly.

7. Trust Builds Faster Than You Think

By the end of the first week, most families feel noticeably more settled.

You may notice:

• Your child talking positively about the nanny
• A smoother morning routine
• Greater confidence leaving for work
• Relief that the school year has structure again