Hiring a nanny is a big decision, especially here in Dubai where your support system might be limited and your nanny becomes part of the family. Before committing long term, many families find it helpful to set up a short trial period. It gives both you and the nanny a chance to understand if the fit is right for your child, your routine, and your home.
Here’s how to structure a nanny trial period that actually works.
Why Do a Trial Period?
A trial period helps:
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Assess if your nanny follows routines as expected
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See how your child responds emotionally
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Observe communication style and initiative
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Test her ability to manage day-to-day tasks like feeding, school prep, or bath time
It also gives your nanny space to understand your home setup and whether she feels comfortable with your family’s needs.
Step 1: Decide the Duration
A good nanny trial period lasts 3 to 7 days. It can be:
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A few consecutive full days (if you’re off work)
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A few hours daily over a week (if you’re working)
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One weekend and two weekdays (to see different rhythms)
The key is consistency. Don’t overwhelm her with unrealistic expectations in just one day.
Step 2: Communicate Expectations Clearly
Even before the trial starts, have a short meeting (in person or on video) to discuss:
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Your child’s schedule
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Any allergies or routines
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House rules
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Your expectations during trial (feeding, play, nap, pickup, etc.)
Put it in writing if needed. Clarity avoids confusion and ensures a fair evaluation.
Step 3: Observe, But Don’t Micromanage
If you’re at home during the trial:
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Step back and let the nanny take initiative
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Watch how she talks to your child, manages time, solves small problems
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Avoid jumping in unless safety is involved
If you’re away:
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Ask for short updates or photos via WhatsApp
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Use a daily log or simple checklist for her to fill in
Let her settle into the role without hovering.
Step 4: Give Feedback Early
At the end of Day 1 or Day 2, take 15 minutes to:
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Ask how she’s feeling
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Offer gentle feedback (“It would help if nap time started by 1pm,” etc.)
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Listen to her questions or hesitations
This helps avoid repeating mistakes and gives both of you a fair chance.
Step 5: Evaluate Fit — Not Perfection
No nanny will do everything your way from Day 1. Focus on:
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Warmth toward your child
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Willingness to learn
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Energy and initiative
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Cleanliness, punctuality, responsiveness
Ask yourself:
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Would I feel comfortable leaving my child with her for a few hours?
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Is my child calm, happy, or interested in her?
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Do I trust her judgment?
If yes, you’re on the right path.
What If It Doesn’t Work Out?
That’s the point of a trial — to test compatibility.
If something feels off:
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Politely end the trial with a simple thank you
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Let her know the role may not be the right fit for your family
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Pay for the time she spent (even if it didn’t work out)
Then go back to your shortlist or browse new nannies at Find My Nanny.
Looking for Pre-Interviewed Nannies?
At Find My Nanny, all nannies are interviewed by our team so you can start the trial knowing:
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She has basic childcare skills
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She’s present and reachable in the UAE
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You can view her video intro and understand her personality
You can also explore support for nanny visas once you're ready to proceed.
Final Thought
A nanny trial period isn’t about testing someone under pressure — it’s about gently seeing if there’s a natural fit. With a little planning and communication, it can be a reassuring step toward long-term support.
Because when your child is happy and you feel peace of mind heading to work, you know you’ve made the right choice.
