In Part 1 of this series, we discussed housekeepers — the hidden backbone of every estate — and how easy it is for them to burn out without the right structure in place. Today, we’re turning to a role that’s every bit as critical, but much more personal: nannies.
Burnout in High-Net-Worth Households
As discussed in Part 1 of this series, staffing challenges are often viewed through the lens of leadership roles like the Estate Manager or Chief of Staff in high-net-worth households, but burnout usually begins elsewhere — with housekeepers, nannies, and chefs who shoulder the daily demands of running the home. Unlike dramatic resignations, burnout in private service is subtle: a housekeeper overlooking details she once caught, a nanny with less patience, or a chef whose creativity starts to fade. These shifts don’t reflect a lack of skill, but rather fatigue — and tired staff simply cannot sustain their best work over time.
Why Nannies Burn Out Faster Than Most
For many families, a nanny isn’t just “staff.” They become part of the family fabric. They help raise the children by organizing their days, supporting their education, and being a stabilizing presence in the household.
That closeness, however, cuts both ways. Nannies often give so much of themselves that burnout creeps in — and when it does, it’s felt by the entire family.
The Triggers We See Most Often:
- Always Being “On”: Whether it’s toddlers in the “terrible twos” or teenagers with endless schedules, nannies rarely get true mental breaks during the day.
- Emotional Weight: Caring for children is rewarding, but it’s also emotionally demanding. Over time, it drains even the most patient professional.
- Blurred Boundaries: Because families often see their nanny as “part of the family,” the lines between work and personal life can vanish.
Nanny Burnout and a Simple Solution: A Case Study
A family with three young children employed one nanny for 12-hour days, six days a week. Initially, the nanny managed her responsibilities effectively, but over time, she began to show signs of fatigue, resulting in increased minor conflicts with the children. The situation was addressed by implementing a dual-nanny arrangement with overlapping shifts. As a result, each nanny received adequate rest, the children had consistent supervision, and the family observed improvements in the overall environment.
How Families and Managers Can Support Nannies
- Split Shifts: Morning/afternoon or weekday/weekend coverage prevents overload on one person.
- Backup Coverage: Bringing in a part-time or travel nanny ensures the main nanny isn’t always “on call.”
- Clear Boundaries: Respecting off-hours and not expecting availability 24/7 goes further than most families realize.
- Professional Development: The best families encourage continuing education — whether it’s early childhood training, CPR refreshers, or even classes that help the nanny grow in her role.
Why It Matters
When a nanny burns out, it doesn’t just affect the job — it affects the children, the parents, and the whole household rhythm. Conversely, when a nanny feels supported and respected, they become more than a caregiver, they become an anchor. Families who invest in their nanny’s well-being often see loyalty that lasts for years.
What’s Next
This is Part 2 of our series “Avoiding Burnout in the Modern Estate.” Coming up:
Part 3 – Chefs & Culinary Staff: The Pressure Cooker Effect
At Crimmins, we don’t just place nannies. We help families structure roles that allow caregivers to thrive — because when they thrive, your family thrives.
Stay tuned for Part 3.
