End-of-Year Bonuses & Holiday Gifts: A Guide for Families With Nannies & Household Staff

As the holiday season approaches, many families begin thinking about how to show appreciation for the people who support their home year-round. Nannies, newborn care specialists, housekeepers, family assistants, and other household staff play an essential role in creating stability, comfort, and peace of mind.

A thoughtful end-of-year bonus or holiday gift is a meaningful way to acknowledge their hard work and dedication, and to reinforce the strong, respectful relationship that makes your household run smoothly.

Below is a clear, helpful guide to navigating holiday bonuses and gifts in 2025.

Why Bonuses Matter

For household employees, holiday bonuses are not only a gesture of gratitude, they’ve become an industry standard across professional domestic settings. A well-planned bonus:

• Demonstrates appreciation

• Helps retain great employees

• Encourages loyalty and long-term stability

• Reflects the high value you place on their care and professionalism

Nannies and household staff work intimately within your home. Showing recognition at the end of the year helps foster goodwill, trust, and positivity heading into the new year.

What’s Considered Standard?

While bonuses can vary depending on performance, tenure, and your family’s budget, the most common practices include:

💛 For Nannies, Housekeepers, Family Assistants, and Other Staff (Full-Time or Part-Time)

• Typical bonus: One to two weeks of pay

• Some families give additional personalized gifts from the children or a thoughtful note.

💛 For Newborn Care Specialists or Night Nannies

• Since these roles are often temporary, bonuses vary widely.

• Families typically give between $100–$500, or a bonus equivalent to one shift of pay, depending on the length of the contract.

💛 For ROTA or Multiple Nannies

• Many high-profile or fully staffed homes provide:

  • One week of pay each, or

  • A performance-based bonus

  • A holiday gift on top of their typical compensation

Holiday Gift Ideas to Add a Personal Touch

Not every gift has to be monetary, many families like to pair a bonus with something thoughtful:

• Spa gift cards

• Personalized items from the children (art, cards, photos)

• Curated self-care sets

• A warm, handwritten note expressing appreciation

• Gift cards to favorite stores or restaurants

• Travel accessories for nannies who accompany the family

Thoughtful gestures can make a big impact and help staff feel truly appreciated. For extra ideas, ask the kids what they think.

Considerations When Deciding on a Bonus

Every family and employee relationship is unique. You may want to consider:

• Length of time employed

• Performance and reliability throughout the year

• Added responsibilities taken on

• Travel time, flexibility, and commitment during busy seasons

• Household norms, especially in fully staffed or high-profile homes

If your family had a nanny or staff member who went above and beyond, this is a wonderful time to acknowledge that effort.

Should You Give a Bonus If It’s Been a Short Employment Period?

Even if a nanny or staff member started recently, a small bonus or thoughtful gift is still appreciated. It sets the tone for a positive working relationship and helps them feel welcomed into your home.

What If Your Nanny Already Receives a High Rate?

Holiday bonuses are not tied to hourly rates, they’re tied to industry norms and employee appreciation. High hourly rates compensate for the work; bonuses acknowledge the year as a whole. Remember, this is their profession, and just like in most industries, year-end bonuses are a standard way to recognize dedication and hard work.

Showing Appreciation Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Remember: the goal isn’t perfection, it’s gratitude. Whether your holiday gesture is big or small, a nanny or household employee will always appreciate being recognized.

A kind word, a thoughtful gift, and a generous spirit go a long way in nurturing a positive, long-lasting working relationship.

Need More Guidance?

The VIP Nannies team is here to help! If you’d like personalized advice or want to ensure your end-of-year practices align with industry standards, feel free to reach out.

We’re honored to support your family and the dedicated caregivers who make each day a little easier.