As Christmas approaches, Nannies frequently ask our advice as to whether to give the children they care for (and their employers) a gift. Whether or not to buy/exchange gifts can be a tricky decision. Like many things, context matters. Your tenure with the family, how many hours you spend with your charges, and the family’s culture and beliefs can all influence this decision.
After considering the above, should you decide to give a gift, you may be facing the problem of what to give? Giving a little gift to the children or a gift for the whole family seems to be the general trend amongst Nannies.
Below are some thoughtful gift ideas you can make on your own or with your charges for that extra personal touch:
Photo Book or Scrapbook – If you have captured some lovely of children on their adventures over the year, this would be the perfect opportunity to share them in a beautiful photo book or scrapbook. Simple, handmade ones are good for getting the children involved. If you are not sure where to start with creating a scrapbook, why not try a website like PhotoBox who can help you create a beautiful photo book. https://www.photobox.co.uk/
A free nights babysitting – with a bottle of wine and a card/homemade voucher, offer a free night (or few hours) of babysitting.
Home baked treats or cookies – Honeywell Bakes has great baking kits which includes easy step by step recipes with all the dry ingredients you will need, along with a chef’s hat, easy to follow recipe card and fun activity card to enjoy. A lovely gift for the whole family but also a wonderful way to get the children involved. https://honeywellbakes.com/product-category/seasonal-gifts/our-edit/
Ornaments – Create your own or buy DIY ornament kits. Many local pottery stores have Christmas decorations that the children can paint themselves. A great craft for the children or an activity for you to do with the children to give as a gift to their parents.
