The Art of the Handover: Making Transitions Smooth for Nannies & Families

A great nanny-family relationship thrives on clear communication, and nowhere is this more important than during handovers. Whether it’s a quick update or a detailed discussion, the way information is exchanged at the start and end of the day can make a huge difference. At Pro Nannies, we ensure that both nannies and families feel confident in their handover process, making sure that everyone gets what they need from the exchange.

In Playdate episode two, Nanny 101: How Does It Work?, we break down why handovers matter and how to make them work for you.

What is a Handover?

A handover is the moment when responsibility for a child shifts between a nanny and a parent (or another designated caregiver 😉). It’s an opportunity to share updates on the child’s day, discuss any concerns, and ensure continuity of care.

Two hands passing a baton against a bright sunlit sky. The scene suggests teamwork and transition, with focus on the hands and baton.

Getting the Handover Right: What We Ask Families

At Pro Nannies, we encourage families to consider:

✅ Who will the nanny be handing over to? Will it be one parent, both parents, or another family member?

It’s important to establish a consistent point of contact.

✅ How should the handover happen? Some families prefer a quick verbal summary, while others want a detailed written update.

We ask families to outline their preferences upfront so there are no surprises.

✅ Should updates be given throughout the day? Some parents like check-ins via WhatsApp, while others are of the "No news is good news" and prefer to wait until the end of the day for a full report.

Understanding this early on helps build trust and ensures nannies aren’t over- or under-communicating.

✅ Is a written handover necessary? For families with packed schedules, a quick note might be the best option, ensuring key details aren’t missed without the need for a long conversation.

Types of Handover Families Can Choose From

We help families and nannies find the best handover style for their needs. Here are the most common options:

WhatsApp group chat – Perfect for ongoing updates throughout the day.
Live updates – Quick messages at key points (nap, meals, outings).
Brief verbal overview – A short summary at pickup/drop-off.
Handover to another family member – Ensuring smooth communication when parents aren’t available.
Written notes – A great option for parents who want a detailed summary to read later or retain for their records.
Detailed discussion – Best for families who want in-depth updates and direct feedback at the end of the day.

Why It Matters

A structured handover ensures that parents stay informed, nannies feel valued, and children experience consistent care. It also prevents miscommunication and helps build a strong, trusting relationship between families and their nanny.

By setting up a clear and agreed-upon handover system, everyone benefits. At Pro Nannies, we help nannies and families tailor this process to suit their specific needs, ensuring a seamless transition at the beginning and end of each day.

Want to hear what else was discussed on Episode Two? 🎧 Listen to Playdate now!

Need advice on building strong nanny-family relationships? Or maybe something else nanny related? We love to hear from nannies and families so click here to get in touch!