The National Association of Nannies recommends ways in which a parent can show appreciation of her nanny.

• Tell your friends good things about her (knowing that she will hear them back)
• Share your days off
• Encourage the child(ren) to say thank you
• Treat your nanny to breakfast or a barbeque made by the family
• Tell her when she does something great
• Give her a card or framed photo of and by the child(ren)
• Membership fees to a nanny network/organization
• Conference fees with paid professional days to attend events (increases her sense of pride in her work)
• Tuition (or paid professional time off) for college courses
• A special dinner at home or out (perhaps even including some of her friends)
• While a raise is always nice, and sometimes even essential, consider an IRA; every year that your nanny stays on the job is another year when you don’t spend time, money and energy trying to replace her

Additionally, how about some fun perks like gift certificates? See the NH links page for resources, or visit the Austin Independent Business Alliance page to find a local merchant for gift certificates for:

• movies or movie rental coupons
• CD or books
• coffee shop
• manicure/pedicure
• Gift baskets
• Candles
• Bath/spa items
• A thank you card with a personalized greeting from your family