The first week with a new person in your home is new for everyone: for your child, for you, and for the caregiver herself. A little preparation makes it much easier. This is what we recommend to every family, along with what paediatric organisations suggest.

In short: an introduction before the first day, a home tour, one page with your child's habits and the emergency numbers, a gradual settling-in and a short, consistent goodbye make the first week much easier.

1. An introduction before the first day

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a visit from the caregiver while you are at home, before regular work begins. Your child sees the new person in a familiar space and with you by their side, and the caregiver gets to know your child and their routines before being alone with them.

2. A home tour

Show her where everything is: nappies and clothes, your child's food and dishes, toys and books, the medicine cabinet and first aid kit, keys, the pushchair. Tell her which rooms or cupboards she doesn't need to open, and how the alarm, intercom and air conditioning work. A caregiver who isn't searching for things can focus her full attention on your child.

3. Everything your child loves, on one page

Write it down, even if you'll tell her verbally too:

  • the daily routine: sleep times, meals, walks, activities
  • how they fall asleep: the lullaby, the favourite toy, the light that stays on
  • what they eat, what they don't eat, and any allergies
  • their favourite toys, books and songs
  • what calms them when they're upset
  • the house rules: screens, sweets, visitors

The AAP is clear on one point: the caregiver does not give your child any medicine or food that you as parents have not approved. So write clearly what is allowed.

4. Phone numbers and address

The list recommended by the AAP for every caregiver includes parents' mobile numbers, a neighbour, the paediatrician, emergency numbers, the Poison Control Centre and your home address. In Greece: 112 for any emergency, 166 for EKAB (the National Emergency Aid Centre) and 210 7793777 for the Poison Control Centre, which operates 24 hours a day. You will find the full list in our article on home safety and first aid.

5. Together at first, then gradually

The British parents' organisation NCT advises introducing your child to the person who will care for them through short separations for practice, after you've spent time together at home while you're present. The NHS suggests starting with a few minutes, for example a quick walk to the local shop, and gradually increasing the time. Avoid the first separation when your child is tired or hungry.

6. Give them time alone together

Chemistry isn't built with you watching every move. Once your child has started to settle in, go to another room or step out for a bit and let the caregiver lead the play in her own way. It's the fastest path to making the new person feel familiar. As NCT writes, trust that the person you're leaving your child with can care for them.

7. A brief, consistent goodbye

Don't slip away quietly. According to NCT, if you sneak out without being seen, the next separation will be harder, and ZERO TO THREE explains that your child starts to worry that you might disappear at any moment. Say goodbye with a smile and confidence, because your child picks up on your tension, and do the same small ritual every day. An object that reminds them of you, a photo or the favourite toy, also helps. There is more in our article on separation anxiety.

8. Same rules and a few minutes of updates each day

A child feels safe when boundaries are the same with whoever they're with. Agree on the basic rules from the start and both of you stick to them. At the end of each day, five minutes talking about how your child ate, how much they slept and what they did makes a huge difference. And when something changes at home, a move, a new sibling, an illness, let the caregiver know so she can also help your child manage it.

Give it time

Some children embrace their new caregiver from day one, others need a few weeks. Both are normal. If anything concerns you, talk to us. At Kindora we continue to be by your side even after placement.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take a child to settle with a new nanny?

It varies from child to child. Some children take to their new caregiver on day one, others need a few weeks, and both are normal.

What should go on the page about my child's habits?

The daily routine, how they fall asleep, what they eat and any allergies, their favourite toys, what calms them and the house rules. Also write down clearly which medicines and foods are allowed.

Should I stay at home for the first few days?

At first, yes, so your child meets the new person with you nearby. Then give them time alone together, with separations that grow gradually.

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