If you’re trying to decide between part-time or full-time nanny care for your family, you’re not alone! We get countless requests each week from families who are seeking part-time (10 – 25 hours per week) care for their child(ren). Here at The Nanny Joynt, we’ve been following trends in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area for years, and we’ve seen how full-time care can offer incredible benefits, both for families and for nannies. 

Understanding the Nanny Market in Scottsdale and Phoenix

Right now, Phoenix is home to an impressive group of nannies, but there’s a trend worth noting: the majority of highly qualified nannies are seeking full-time positions. Most of these professionals prefer to work at least 35-40 hours per week, with hourly rates starting at $30.

This shift is largely due to the rising cost of living in the Phoenix area. Over the past three years, the cost of living has jumped by over 23%, far outpacing the national average. Full-time roles provide the kind of stability that many nannies are looking for in today’s market, and families who offer full-time hours are more likely to attract top-tier candidates.

The Perks of Full-Time Nanny Care

While part-time care can work for some families, full-time care offers so many benefits that go beyond just covering the hours. Here’s why full-time care can be a game-changer:

1. Attracting Top Talent: Full-time positions attract nannies who are in this for the long haul. You’ll be working with someone who views childcare as their career, not just a short-term job.
2. Deeper Integration into Your Family: A full-time nanny becomes part of your family’s routine, adjusting to your unique needs and providing continuity.
3. Flexibility: Full-time care offers flexibility for families with demanding or unpredictable schedules. Whether it’s extra help around the house or managing busy afternoons, your nanny is there when you need them most.
4. Consistency for Your Children: Children thrive on stability, and having the same nanny with them throughout the week helps build trust and a strong bond.

Maximizing Full-Time Hours with Household Management

Even if your childcare needs don’t require 40 hours a week, you can still offer a full-time position by expanding your nanny’s role to include household management. This approach not only benefits your nanny, but it also helps your family by taking a few extra things off your plate:

• Meal Prep: Having your nanny help with meals and snacks takes the stress out of dinnertime. You can even ask for help with meal planning and grocery shopping.
• Children’s Laundry: Nannies can handle laundry for the kids, saving you time and keeping clothes organized.
• Light Housekeeping: Tidying up play areas, keeping children’s rooms clean, and even vacuuming after messy activities helps keep your home running smoothly.
• Errand Running: Your nanny can take care of errands during school hours—like grocery shopping or dry cleaning runs, and let us not forget all those Amazon returns.
• Schedule Management: Nannies can assist with organizing playdates, appointments, and after-school activities, making sure nothing gets missed.

Investing in Family Time

By expanding your nanny’s role, you’re not just filling hours—you’re freeing yourself up to spend more quality time with your family. Here’s how:

• Less Stress: You’ll come home to a tidy house, prepared meals, and less on your to-do list, making it easier to focus on your kids.
• More Time for Fun: With everyday tasks handled, you’ll have more time to enjoy family activities or just relax together.
• Smoother Routines: A well-organized home runs more efficiently, allowing for better routines and more peaceful evenings.

When to Hire: Timing Matters

The Phoenix nanny market can be competitive, but timing your search can make a difference. Consider hiring during our “off-season” months of October through December. Families who hire during these times tend to have access to a wider pool of candidates! 

Full-time nanny care is about so much more than just childcare—it’s about creating a balanced, organized home life that works for everyone. At The Nanny Joynt, we’ve seen how families benefit from this kind of support, and we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your family.