How to Run a Nanny Trial That Sets Everyone Up for Success

Aug 5, 2025 | GTM Blog, Household Employee Management

nanny-trial

A nanny trial run is a fantastic way for your family to see if a potential nanny is the right fit. When you communicate clearly and openly, the trial process can set the stage for a lasting relationship. Here is a guideline on conducting a successful trial run.

1. Clear Communication Before the Trial

Before the trial even begins, it’s important to be upfront about what you expect. Share details about your daily routine, how you like to parent, and what specific responsibilities the nanny will have. This helps the nanny feel prepared and confident.

2. An Orientation Period

The trial usually starts with an introduction to your household. Take some time to show the nanny around, introduce them to your children, and go over any important routines or house rules. Consider providing a written guide with key information, such as daily schedules and any special instructions.

3. Observation and Shadowing

The first part of the trial often involves watching how the nanny interacts with your children. This could mean having them shadow during mealtimes, playtime, or even bedtime routines. Use this time to observe their caregiving style and how they connect with your kids.

4. Hands-On Responsibilities

After the observation period, the nanny will likely start taking on more hands-on tasks, like preparing meals, organizing activities, or managing nap times. This is your chance to see how capable and reliable they are with your household’s unique needs.

5. Evaluating Compatibility

Really pay attention to how the nanny engages with your children and if their approach aligns with your family’s values. Are they proactive? Do they communicate well? How do your children respond to them? Consider if their personality and approach feel like a good fit for your home.

6. Feedback and Open Communication

Throughout the trial, you should be giving feedback. Share what’s working well and what could be improved. A good tip here is to keep feedback constructive and focus on specific examples. This really helps build trust and keeps things clear for both of you.

7. Discussing Next Steps

If the trial goes well, it’s time to talk about the potential start date, compensation, and any other details. If it doesn’t quite work out, politely communicate your decision and, if comfortable, offer some feedback to help the nanny in their future searches.

8. A Flexible Schedule

Trials typically last a day or two, but sometimes they might need to be a bit longer. Try to be flexible to allow enough time for a thorough evaluation. And remember to compensate the nanny fairly for their time, even if you decide not to move forward.

9. Handling the Unexpected

Not every trial is going to be perfectly smooth. Your children might need some time to adjust, or the nanny might run into unexpected challenges. These moments can actually be very valuable. They show you how adaptable and resourceful the nanny is. The best advice? Keep those lines of communication open and try to approach challenges as a team.

10. Making the Final Decision

Trust your gut. If the nanny feels like the right fit, go for it! If not, keep searching until you find that perfect match for your family. Making an informed decision now will lead to a more successful and harmonious long-term partnership.

By approaching the trial with preparation and clear communication, you’ll be one step closer to finding the perfect nanny for your family. For help with the hiring process and creating a successful offer package when you find the right fit, give us a call at (800) 929-9213 or book a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.