Our nanny was with us for 2.5 years, we loved her but had to let her go for financial reasons...we gave one week of pay as severence plus I worked my tail off to help her find another job (which I think she actually appreciated even more then money).

I worked for a family for about a year and they just moved away last week. I have a trip to London planned for fall and they gave me a 2015 London calendar and a $100 visa gift card to use for the trip. That was really nice and thoughtful. The real gift was the incredibly nice note they gave me along with it. That meant a lot. It was all so thoughtful and made me feel really appreciated. Every time I look at the calendar, I'll think of them.

I'd start by writing a nice note. If you know anything about her hobbies or plans, find a little something that goes along with it. The thoughtfulness of finding something specific to her interests will mean a lot.

Give her cash, that's the only thing she wants.

Our nanny just left after 2.5 years with us and I don't know what an appropriate gift would be. She's cared for our son since he was 6 months old and he's now in school and with a newborn I've decided to stay home. So parting on good terms. Ideas are welcome as I don't want to make her feel unappreciated.