Should I Hire a Nanny? What Parents Really Need to Know
If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Should I hire a nanny?” you’re not alone. For many parents, the thought of bringing in outside help stirs up guilt, pride, or fears of “not doing enough.” Maybe you were raised to believe self-sufficiency is the gold standard. Maybe you worry others will judge you. Or maybe you just can’t picture how it would work in your home.
But here’s the truth: Hiring a nanny isn’t about defeat. It’s about support. And support is a superpower.
In a recent conversation on the Better Relationships After Baby Podcast, I spoke with Stephanie Fornaro, founder of Hello Nanny, about her personal journey from resisting help to building one of the nation’s most trusted nanny agencies. Her story offers practical insights for parents wondering if this step is right for them.
Why Parents Consider Hiring a Nanny
Parenthood today is often more isolated than ever before. Many families don’t live near relatives, and grandparents may still be working or not be able to step in. Without that built-in village, parents carry the weight of everything—work, childcare, household management, and keeping a relationship afloat.
For Stephanie, the turning point came after her son was born. A pediatrician bluntly told her, “Your husband is offering to hire a nanny. Why won’t you do that?” That nudge led her to bring in help, something she credits with saving her marriage and her mental health.
The benefits of hiring a nanny can include:
Reduced stress and burnout – Someone to share the daily load.
More space for your relationship – Time for date nights, conversations, and rest.
Better support for your child’s development – Nannies bring experience and focused care.
Flexibility compared to daycare – Especially if you work nontraditional hours.
What’s the Difference Between a Nanny and a Family Assistant?
Many parents are surprised to learn there are different kinds of support available:
Nanny – Focuses on childcare and tasks directly related to the children (laundry, meals, tidying play areas, developmental activities).
Family Assistant – A hybrid role that includes childcare and household management (meal planning, grocery shopping, errands, home organization).
Choosing the right support depends on your season of life. If you need someone to nurture your toddler while you’re at work, a nanny may be ideal. If your biggest stressors are the never-ending laundry and grocery lists, a family assistant could free up more space.
Overcoming the Guilt
One of the biggest barriers to hiring help is guilt. You might hear voices saying, “You’re letting someone else raise your child,” or “It must be nice to not do everything yourself.”
Stephanie reframes it this way: “Everyone’s village looks different. Some have grandparents down the street. Others hire a nanny. Neither is wrong. Getting help is an act of self-love and an investment in your family.”
Instead of thinking of it as replacing your role, consider it as expanding your support system so you can show up as the parent and partner you want to be.
Practical Steps if You’re Considering a Nanny
If you’re starting to wonder if hiring a nanny is right for your family, here are a few practical steps:
Identify your pain points. Is it childcare coverage, household chores, or both? This helps you decide between a nanny and a family assistant.
Talk openly with your partner. What would support look like for each of you? How would it strengthen your relationship?
Research agencies. A trusted agency like Hello Nanny can guide you through vetting, background checks, and matching you with the right fit.
Release the guilt. Remember—this is about building a sustainable life, not proving you can do it all.
Should You Hire a Nanny?
Only you can answer that question, but here’s the key: you don’t have to carry everything alone. Support—whether from family, friends, or a professional nanny is not a weakness. It’s wisdom.
If you’re ready to explore your options, start with Hello Nanny. Their team has walked this road themselves, and they know what it means to help families thrive.
Because at the end of the day, your baby doesn’t just need parents who do it all. Your baby needs parents who are connected, present, and thriving.
