Do you give your nanny a Christmas bonus?
A Christmas bonus is a great way to show your nanny how grateful you are for all that they’ve done over the past year.
Your nanny takes a lot off your plate by helping with homework, nap times, meal times, school runs and so much more. So, how do you show your appreciation?
Many families aren’t clear on why Christmas bonuses are important, or how to go about giving one. That’s why we’ve put together answers to the most common questions about giving a Christmas bonus.
Why is it important to give a Christmas bonus?
A holiday bonus is just that, a reward for a job well done. It’s a great way to show your nanny how much you appreciate them and all that they do for you and your family.
Christmas bonuses are common practice in most professions, not just nannying and with the additional outgoings associated with the festive season, a bonus can make all the difference to your nanny’s finances.
Not giving a Christmas bonus can have its consequences as it may lead to your nanny feeling undervalued and underappreciated, especially if they hear of other nannies receiving Christmas bonuses.
Top Tip: If your nanny hasn’t been performing well or is soon to be let go from her position due to poor performance, giving a Christmas bonus is not advised. It will send the wrong message that you are pleased with their work and that their job is secure.
How much should you give?
This is the most difficult and commonly debated question when it comes to paying a Christmas bonus and it is dependent upon many factors including; your location and your household income.
Ultimately, how much your pay is at your discretion, but we do have a few tips to help you determine a suitable amount:
- Ask other families how much they pay their nannies.
- Research Christmas bonus rates in your area.
The important thing to remember is to stick within your means and try to be consistent. If you paid your nanny a certain amount last year, they may be relying on the same amount this year to aid with their finances.
Top Tip: Remember that bonuses, just like all other wages need to be declared for tax and National Insurance purposes.
What if you can’t afford to provide a bonus?
Christmas can be a difficult time for everyone, with the costs of utilities going up to combat the falling temperature and the need to buy greater quantities of food and gifts.
The best way to plan the provision of a Christmas bonus is to include it in your budget/contract when you first hire your nanny to ensure that the bonus is already planned and set aside ready for the appropriate time.
However, if you are struggling, communicate this with your nanny who will more than likely understand your situation.
Top Tip: Be sure to reassure your nanny that although a bonus isn’t possible at the moment, their job is still secure and you do want to continue to employ them. This should help to alleviate any worry or concerns that your nanny may have over the security of their job.
Can you give a gift instead of a monetary bonus?
Gifts are a great way to show your appreciation whilst also getting the children involved to provide a more thoughtful gift to your nanny.
You could ask the children to make something, or find a gift that will make your nanny feel special and valued as a member of your family.
Top Tip: If switching from a financial bonus to a physical gift, be sure to explain this to your nanny in advance to ensure that they don’t view this as a sign of dissatisfaction with their work.
Do you give your nanny a Christmas bonus? Are you a nanny with Christmas bonus advice for employers? Share your thoughts and tips with us in the comments below!