Timea is the founder of TGC and she has a vast experience in matching families with the perfect nannies. Here is her advice on the best form of childcare for your family.
When families begin their search for childcare, they often have a clear vision of what they think they need—perhaps a full-time nanny, a live-in caregiver, or a dedicated early childhood professional. However, at The Governess & Co., we’ve found that 30% of our total enquiries for a full-time nanny ultimately evolve into some other form of childcare. Many of these placements transition into after-school nanny roles, tutoring support, or even a hybrid childcare solution. And that’s perfectly okay!
Understanding Your Family’s True Needs – Babysitter? Nanny? Governess?
The childcare journey is not always linear. What initially seems like the best solution may not be the most sustainable or practical in the long run. As an agency, our role is to guide and advise families, helping them navigate their evolving needs to ensure they find the right nanny for their household from our many services.
Why Do Childcare Needs Shift?
Childcare requirements change for many reasons. Some of the most common factors include:
- Children’s Age & Development – A newborn requires round-the-clock care, but as children grow, parents may realize that a part-time nanny or tutor better fits their evolving needs.
- Parental Work Schedules – Some parents initially believe they need full-time support but later find that mornings and evenings are their key stress points, making an after-school nanny a better match.
- Budget & Sustainability – Full-time nannies are a significant investment, and some families discover that a tailored combination of a tutor, part-time nanny, or childcare-sharing arrangement is more practical.
- Education & Extracurricular Activities – As children enter school, the focus often shifts from daytime care to academic support, such as a private tutor or a nanny with educational experience.
- Household Dynamics – Sometimes, an unexpected lifestyle change or the addition of another caregiver (such as a grandparent or au pair) alters the original plan.
Common Alternatives to Full-Time Nannies
At The Governess & Co., we have successfully helped families transition from their initial requests into more personalized and adaptable childcare solutions. Here are some alternatives to traditional full-time nannies:
- After-School Nannies – Ideal for families with school-aged children who need structured support in the afternoons, including homework help, transportation to activities, and meal preparation.
- Tutors & Educational Nannies – If academic enrichment is a top priority, a tutor or an educationally trained nanny can provide personalized learning support beyond a standard caregiving role.
- Live-In vs. Live-Out Nannies – Some families start with a live-in arrangement but later opt for a live-out nannyto strike a better balance between privacy and professional childcare.
- Weekend or Travel Nannies – For families that travel frequently or have weekend-heavy schedules, a flexible nanny with travel experience may be the better fit.
- Shared Childcare Arrangements – In some cases, nanny-sharing with another family becomes a viable, cost-effective option.
Finding a Long-Term, Sustainable Solution
At The Governess & Co., our priority is not just to fill a role but to ensure a placement that is beneficial for both families and childcare professionals in the long term. Childcare should not feel like a rigid structure—it should be adaptable to fit your family’s unique lifestyle.
If you’re currently considering childcare options, we encourage you to keep an open mind. Let’s explore together what truly fits your needs, both now and in the future. Reach out to us at The Governess & Co., and we will help you find the most sustainable and enriching childcare solution for your family.