Gift for nanny's child's birthday?

[Anonymous]

Hi MBs,

My nanny has two sons (a toddler and 7 yr old) and as a first time MB, I'm trying to figure out whether I should give some sort of gift/bonus for them for their birthdays. What's typical on this front? FWIW, I've never met the boys in person but would still like to give something. TIA!

[Anonymous]

No, it's not necessary to give her kids gifts. But it's a very nice gesture. If you've never met the kids, I would just give something very small. A book would be nice. For the older child, may be a gift card to a store or ice-cream shop, so they can have the fun of "buying" it themselves.

Are her children boys or girls? Some might be able to give better ideas if they knew.

[Anonymous]

I think giving a small gift ($10-15) would be a very thoughtful gesture but unnecessary especially since you haven't met them.

[Anonymous]

I would get a small toy and gift card for the youngest (or maybe some new clothing if you know the size). I'd get a gift card for the older child. Its probably not required but its thoughtful to show you care about her and her kids. I would also do a Christmas gift.

[Anonymous]

I think that would be really nice of you.

[Anonymous]

A nice card and a gift ($20?) would be right. She'll almost certainly get your child/ren birthday presents and it really sets a positive tone for your relationship.

Bonuses are appropriate for holidays, employment anniversaries, or for your nanny's birthday.

[Anonymous]

I think it's odd to give someone else's children a birthday gift unless you have some sort of direct relationship with the children.

[Anonymous]

I am a nanny, it would nice if my MB gave a birthday gift to my child, but I don't expect it. What I would expect from her is a holiday bonus or an annual raise.