Navigating Holiday Time Off: A Guide for Families and Nannies

The holiday season brings joy, excitement, and sometimes a bit of chaos. Between travel plans, family gatherings, and busy schedules, finding time to rest and recharge can be tricky, especially for families and nannies who work so closely together throughout the year.

At TLC Family Care, we know the holidays can create unique scheduling challenges. Whether you’re a nanny requesting time off or a parent managing childcare coverage, planning ahead and communicating early helps everyone enjoy the season with less stress and more cheer.

Here’s how families and caregivers can work together to make the holidays smooth, fair, and positive for everyone.

For Nannies: How to Request Holiday Time Off

Just like the families you care for, nannies often hope to spend the holidays with their own loved ones. The best way to make that possible is to plan early and communicate clearly.

When requesting time off:
✅ Give as much notice as possible ideally six to eight weeks before the holidays.
✅ Be flexible if the family needs coverage on certain days. Offering to adjust your schedule can go a long way.
✅ Help the family plan ahead by suggesting a backup care option or modified schedule.

If your request can’t be accommodated, stay professional and understanding. Families often juggle work commitments and travel plans that make flexibility difficult. You can:

• Ask if you can take time off before or after the main holidays.
• Request shorter hours or alternate days off.
• Discuss plans for next year earlier, so everyone is better prepared.

Remember — your role is valued, and most families will do their best to balance everyone’s needs when communication stays open.

For Parents: Providing Paid Time Off and Managing Schedules

For families, the holiday season is the perfect time to show appreciation for your nanny’s dedication throughout the year. Recognizing their need for time off helps strengthen trust and loyalty.

Many families offer:

• Paid federal holidays such as Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
• 1–2 weeks of paid vacation, with one week chosen by the nanny and one by the family.
• Paid sick days that can also be used for family events or rest after a busy season.

If your nanny will be traveling, confirm dates early and work together on a backup care plan in case of changes. If you’ll need extra coverage for parties, errands, or late nights, TLC Family Care can help with experienced, vetted caregivers to step in when needed.

Thoughtful scheduling and clear communication make the holidays less stressful for everyone  and show your caregiver how much you value their support.

Why Every Family Needs a Backup Care Plan

Even with the best planning, things happen, nannies get sick, travel plans shift, or weather disrupts schedules. Having a backup care plan gives you peace of mind and ensures your children are always in good hands.

At TLC Family Care, our backup caregivers are:
✅ Fully vetted and background checked
✅ Experienced with children of all ages
✅ CPR and First Aid certified
✅ Available for short-term or last-minute placements

Backup care ensures your routine stays on track while giving your nanny the flexibility they deserve. Whether it’s a snow day, sick day, or travel delay, TLC has you covered.

Finding Balance and Showing Gratitude

The holidays are about connection, gratitude, and care for the same values that make strong nanny-family relationships thrive all year long.

Families: show appreciation through time off, fair pay, or a heartfelt thank-you.
Nannies: communicate openly, stay flexible, and remember your work truly makes a difference.

With early planning, clear communication, and a reliable backup care plan, everyone can enjoy the season rested, supported, and ready for a wonderful new year.

The professionals at TLC Family Care personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized  approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 40 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at tlc@tlcforkids.com or Call 314-725-5660.