How to Hire a Nanny in Connecticut: The Complete Family Handbook

🌟 Why We’re Sharing This Guide (Even Though We Handle It All for You)

You might be wondering — if The Marla Lane Nanny Agency takes care of everything, why offer a full guide on how to hire a nanny yourself?

Because we believe informed families make stronger partnerships.

When parents understand how the nanny hiring process works — from screening and contracts to taxes and communication — it creates clarity, confidence, and a healthier working relationship from the start.

Our goal isn’t just to match you with the right nanny.

It’s to help you feel empowered, educated, and supported throughout the entire journey.

We know your family’s needs are unique, and sometimes you want to fully understand what’s happening behind the scenes. This handbook gives you:

• Transparency into our agency’s process

• Confidence in your role as a household employer

• Guidance on what to expect before, during, and after hiring

• Peace of mind knowing every detail is handled with care

Whether you decide to go through us (which we recommend!) or simply want to learn the ins and outs of hiring a nanny, this resource is here to support you.

At The Marla Lane Nanny Agency, we value partnership — not pressure.

Our goal is for every family to feel informed, calm, and confident in their childcare decisions.

Welcome to The Marla Lane Nanny Agency!

At The Marla Lane Nanny Agency, we exist to bring calm to the chaos by thoughtfully connecting families with professional, nurturing nannies who feel like an extension of your heart.

Finding the right nanny shouldn’t be overwhelming. This guide walks you through how to hire a nanny, understand your legal responsibilities, and build a strong, lasting relationship with your caregiver.

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🩵 About The Marla Lane Nanny Agency

We’re a boutique nanny agency in Connecticut that takes pride in helping families find experienced, trustworthy nannies.

Every candidate we present has been:

• Personally interviewed

• Reference-checked with past employers

• Background and MVR screened

• CPR and First Aid certified

We combine professionalism with a personalized touch, matching each family with a nanny who aligns with their values, energy, and lifestyle.

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🌿 Step 1: Understand Your Family’s Needs

Before starting your nanny search, it’s important to clarify what your family truly needs.

Consider:

• Your schedule (full-time, part-time, after-school, etc)

• Household expectations (meal prep, laundry, errandsf)

• Child ages and personalities

• Your parenting style and family values

• Flexibility and any special circumstances

When you partner with The Marla Lane Nanny Agency, we’ll help you identify these details through a personalized consultation to ensure the perfect match.

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👩‍👧 Step 2: The Nanny Hiring Process

We’ve refined a seamless, transparent process for families:

1. Family Consultation: We get to know your family’s needs and values.

2. Candidate Search: We hand-select qualified, fully vetted nannies.

3. Interviews: You meet your top candidates via video or in person.

4. Trial Period: A short working interview ensures a great fit.

5. Offer & Contract: We guide you through the offer, pay details, and agreement.

Our goal is to make hiring a nanny simple, safe, and stress-free.

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💬 Step 3: Interviewing Your Nanny`

Asking the right questions helps you find the right connection.

Sample Nanny Interview Questions:

• What do you love most about working with children?

• How do you handle tantrums or challenging moments?

• What kind of family do you work best with?

• Are you open to helping with light household duties?

Tip: Focus on warmth, patience, and how the nanny communicates — these are the best indicators of fit.

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💼 Step 4: Making a Job Offer

When you’ve found your ideal nanny, we’ll help you craft a clear and fair offer.

Typical Connecticut nanny pay: $25–$30 per hour, depending on experience and duties.

Include:

• Pay rate and overtime terms

• Start date and schedule

• Benefits (PTO, holidays, sick days)

• A 1–2 week trial period before full commitment

You’ll also receive a customized Nanny Work Agreement template to formalize expectations.

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💰 Step 5: Nanny Pay, Taxes & Legal Requirements

When you hire a nanny, you become a household employer.

That means you’re responsible for:

• Paying legally (“on the books”)

• Withholding Social Security and Medicare taxes

• Paying unemployment insurance

• Providing a W-2 at year-end

We can connect you with trusted household payroll partners who specialize in nanny employment. We love GTM Payroll Services and HomeWork Solutions!

Why pay your nanny legally?

✅ Compliance with labor laws

✅ Peace of mind for your family

✅ Benefits and job security for your nanny

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🌼 Step 6: Onboarding and the Trial Period

A smooth start leads to a lasting relationship.

During the first week, review:

• Daily routines and responsibilities

• Safety procedures and emergency contacts

• Child preferences, allergies, and routines

• Communication expectations

A trial period (3–10 days) allows everyone to adjust and confirm the match feels right.

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🗣 Step 7: Communication and Boundaries

Open communication builds trust.

• Hold weekly or biweekly check-ins

• Be open and specific with feedback

• Respect your nanny’s time off

• Encourage two-way communication

Many families use a shared nanny journal or daily report for smooth coordination.

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📜 Step 8: Nanny Work Agreement

A written nanny contract (also called a Nanny Work Agreement) protects both family and nanny.

Include:

• Work schedule and duties

• Pay rate and overtime policy

• Paid time off, holidays, and sick days

• Confidentiality & social media policy

• Termination or transition procedures

We provide every family with a customizable work agreement.

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🎁 Step 9: Nanny Benefits & Retention Tips

Retaining a great nanny means showing appreciation and respect.

Common benefits include:

• Guaranteed weekly hours

• Paid vacation (2 weeks per year)

• Paid holidays (6–10 days annually)

• Sick days (3–5 per year)

• Year-end bonus (1–2 weeks’ pay, prorated if new)

Even small gestures like thank-you notes, birthday gifts, or flexibility go a long way.

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❤️ Step 10: Handling Challenges Gracefully

If challenges arise, address them early and kindly.

• Discuss privately and calmly

• Be clear about the issue and desired solution

• Listen to your nanny’s perspective

• Revisit your agreement if needed

Our agency is always available to help mediate and ensure both sides feel supported.

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🌙 Step 11: Transitions & End of Employment

When your nanny’s time comes to an end:

• Give 2–4 weeks’ notice

• Offer a reference or letter of recommendation

• Pay any unused PTO and final wages

We’ll support your family during transitions — and help find your next amazing nanny when the time comes.

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💡 FAQs About Hiring a Nanny in Connecticut

How long does it take to hire a nanny?

Most families find the right fit in 2–6 weeks, depending on availability.

Can my nanny travel with us?

Yes! Just outline travel expectations and compensation in your contract.

Should I install cameras?

If you do, disclose it upfront. Transparency builds trust and respect.

What if my nanny isn’t the right fit?

We offer a 120 day replacement guarantee period to ensure you’re completely satisfied.

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✨ Ready to Find Your Perfect Nanny?

At The Marla Lane Nanny Agency, we thoughtfully connect Connecticut families with professional, CPR-certified nannies who bring warmth, reliability, and peace of mind.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your family consultation!

860.301.3169 or email us at info@marlalane.com

📍 Serving West Hartford, Avon, Farmington, Glastonbury, Fairfield County, and families across Connecticut