From Term-Time to Summertime: A Nanny’s Guide to Holiday Transitions

Why This Transition Matters - Embracing the Shift

The end of the school year brings a shift from structured school days to the free-flowing rhythm of holidays. Throughout the year, both children and their nannies grow accustomed to a predictable routine, and many nannies are used to working before and/or after school, with some downtime during the day. But once the school holidays begin, those part-time hours often become full-time, bringing a significant increase in both responsibilities and emotional demands.

This seasonal change calls for proactive preparation from children, families, and the nanny caring for them. It marks a shift in your own role, routine, and energy levels. But with a little planning and open communication, the whole household can transition smoothly into the summer months.

Helping Children Adjust from School to Summer

Create a flexible but predictable routine

Children thrive on structure, even in summer. A loose daily rhythm offers comfort and stability while keeping the days fun. For example, start with a morning activity (like arts and crafts), followed by lunch and some chill time, then an afternoon outing. Afternoon outings often work better than rushed mornings and help children burn off energy before dinner. Adapt timings to suit your caregiving style and the children’s natural flow.

Maintain key anchors from the school day

Even in a relaxed routine, familiar ‘anchors’ such as mealtimes, naps, or reading can help children feel more secure. Anchoring your day around these key moments helps the schedule flow, especially when juggling different age groups. Some parents may also want children to continue schoolwork, so slotting in quiet time in the afternoon can echo their usual term-time structure and give children a comforting sense of continuity.

Give children a sense of choice and control

Summer brings more opportunities for autonomy. Empower children by involving them in planning activities. Create a list of favourite activities for each child and spread them across the weeks, especially if caring for multiple children. From experience, siblings are often reluctant to embrace an idea from their siblings, and not one of their own (just for the sake of it!), so alternating who gets to pick can avoid sibling squabbles. Older children may want independence with friends. Support this, but ensure you have all the information needed for safety and schedule coordination. Better yet, invite their friends along to planned outings for a win-win.

Preparing for Travel with Children

Get children involved in the process

Whether you’re travelling with the family or helping them get ready, involving children can make a big difference. Let younger ones choose a few favourite or comfort items to take along as it helps them feel secure and part of the adventure. Older children can take on more responsibility, like making their own packing list, checking the weather, and laying everything out so you can go over it together. It’s a great way to build independence while keeping things organised. If they’re interested, involve them in choosing activities or destinations online with you. When children feel included, they’re usually more cooperative and excited about what’s ahead.

Support emotional regulation during travel

Even when it’s exciting, travel can feel overwhelming, especially when routines change or environments are unfamiliar. Some children may feel anxious about sleeping somewhere new, eating different foods, or simply being out of their usual rhythm. It helps to talk through the plans in advance, like when you’re leaving, what the journey will be like, and what they can expect at the destination. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel unsure and that you’re there to help! Bringing a familiar blanket, toy, or bedtime routine can offer comfort. Where possible, build in moments of quiet or rest on busy travel days as just a little breathing room can prevent big emotions from bubbling over.

But don’t forget your own emotional regulation too. If you’re rushing to get everyone out the door or coping with meltdowns, take a moment to breathe, step away briefly if needed, and give yourself space. Your calm presence is powerful, but you’re human too. Extend the same care and patience to yourself that you so generously give to the children.

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Proactive Communication with Parents

Have the conversation early

Don’t wait until the last day of term to discuss summer plans. Schedule a conversation in advance and cover key areas:

Travel dates
Extra hours or changes to your schedule
Special outings or events
Any house-sitting or pet care expectations

Clarify start/finish times and whether any flexibility will be needed. Early, clear communication sets the tone for a smooth summer and helps you plan your time and protect your energy.

Set clear boundaries (kindly!)

Be honest about what you can realistically manage, both physically and emotionally. Discuss off-duty hours, weekend expectations, and your own holiday plans, especially if you’re travelling with the family. It can help to put boundaries in writing to avoid confusion. Frame them positively and collaboratively, you’re part of a team, after all.

Clarify overtime, holiday, and overnight rates

School holidays can mean longer days, overnight care, or travelling with the family. It’s important to agree in advance on how your time will be valued. Discuss:

Your hourly rate for overtime or extended days
Overnight care rates, both at home and while away
How working hours and rest time are defined if you’re travelling with the family

Putting this in writing sets everyone up for a smooth and respectful summer.

Discuss budget and reimbursements

Holiday fun often comes with extra costs. To avoid confusion, talk through how expenses will be handled:

Is there a budget that the Family would like you to stick to?
Will you have access to a petty cash float for outings and daily expenses?
Will you submit receipts for reimbursement, and how often?

Clear expectations here mean you can plan fun, affordable activities without footing the bill or chasing costs later.

Stay in touch throughout the holidays

Use a shared calendar to track outings, holiday plans, and any schedule changes. Share updates or photos occasionally (within agreed boundaries) to keep parents feeling connected, especially if they’re away or working. If the family is away, keep in touch just enough to stay updated, not to stay on-call. Enjoy your time off!

Supporting Your Own Well-being

Acknowledge the shift in your routine

Going from term-time to full-time care can feel like a gear change. Your days may become longer and more physically demanding, especially if you’re caring for multiple children. It’s normal to feel a bit off balance at first! Give yourself time to adjust. Lean into slower starts, enjoy spontaneous adventures, and trust that you’ll find a new flow.

Prioritise rest, nourishment, and mental space

When your days are busier, self-care is even more essential.

Keep snacks on hand and plan meals that keep your energy steady
Take short breaks where possible
Build in moments to decompress: a podcast on the way home, a short walk, or journaling before bed
Get enough sleep!

Small habits help you reset and stay present.

Embrace the joy of summer, for you and the children

Summer can be one of the most rewarding times to be a nanny. The pressure of school lifts, and the freedom to play, explore, and connect deepens your bond with the children. Harness that positive spirit by planning engaging activities, saying yes to spontaneous fun, and making the most of the sunshine while it’s here. You’re not just surviving the holidays, you’re helping shape some of the children’s happiest memories.

Remember, you matter too

Being a nanny during the summer is joyful, fulfilling, and at times exhausting. You are the constant in the chaos. Protect your peace, set healthy boundaries, and take care of yourself along the way. You can’t pour from an empty cup. When you prioritise your own well-being, you're better able to show up with patience, creativity, and joy. And that’s the version of you the children, and you, deserve!