Nanny Recommendation Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[Family's Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I am delighted to write this recommendation letter on behalf of [Nanny's Name], who has been an exceptional nanny to my [child/children's names] for the past [duration of employment, e.g., two years].
[Nanny's Name] has consistently demonstrated her outstanding childcare skills, responsibility, and dedication throughout her tenure with our family. She has been a crucial part of our household, and we have complete trust in her ability to care for our children as if they were her own.
One of [Nanny's Name]'s most remarkable qualities is her ability to create a nurturing and loving environment for the children under her care. She is incredibly patient, compassionate, and attentive to their needs, ensuring they feel secure and happy at all times. Our children adore her and always look forward to spending time with her.
Beyond her nurturing nature, [Nanny's Name] exhibits a high level of professionalism and reliability. She is consistently punctual, maintains open and clear communication with us, and diligently follows the agreed-upon schedule. Additionally, she always takes the initiative to engage the children in educational and creative activities, encouraging their growth and development in various aspects.
We have been particularly impressed by [Nanny's Name]'s ability to handle challenging situations with poise and grace. Whether it's resolving conflicts between siblings or managing a child's occasional tantrums, she remains calm and composed, always guiding the children toward positive behavior and understanding.
Furthermore, [Nanny's Name] is adept at balancing household responsibilities while caring for our children. She willingly assists with light housework and meal preparation, which has been a tremendous help to our family's daily routines.
As a parent, it is reassuring to know that our children are in such capable hands when we cannot be with them. [Nanny's Name] has become an integral part of our family, and we cannot thank her enough for the love and care she has given our children over the years.
In summary, I wholeheartedly recommend [Nanny's Name] as a nanny for any family. She is a compassionate, responsible, and trustworthy individual who will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact on the lives of the children she cares for.
If you have any questions or would like further information about [Nanny's Name], please do not hesitate to contact me. I am more than happy to provide additional insights into her exceptional qualifications.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Professional Nanny Recommendation for New Employment
Subject: Recommendation for [Nanny's Name]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I am writing to provide my highest recommendation for [Nanny's Name], who worked as a nanny for our family from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, she cared for our [number] children, ages [ages], with exceptional dedication and professionalism.
[Nanny's Name] demonstrated outstanding childcare skills, including age-appropriate educational activities, nutritious meal preparation, and maintaining consistent routines. She handled both everyday situations and emergencies with calm competence. Our children developed a strong, trusting bond with her and showed remarkable growth under her care.
Beyond her technical skills, [Nanny's Name] exhibited reliability, punctuality, and excellent communication. She respected our family's values and parenting style while bringing creative ideas to enrich our children's daily experiences. Her patience, warmth, and genuine affection for children made her an invaluable part of our household.
I recommend [Nanny's Name] without reservation and believe she would be an excellent addition to any family. Please feel free to contact me at [phone] or [email] if you need additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Relationship]
Heartfelt Letter for Long-Term Nanny Leaving the Family
Subject: A Heartfelt Recommendation for [Nanny's Name]
Dear Future Family,
It's difficult to put into words what [Nanny's Name] has meant to our family over the past [number] years. She hasn't just been our nanny—she's been a cherished member of our family, a trusted confidante, and the person our children run to with their biggest smiles and their deepest worries.
From the moment she joined us, [Nanny's Name] brought light into our home. She taught our children [specific examples: to read, to be kind, to love learning]. She was there for first steps, first words, and countless first moments that we'll treasure forever. She's celebrated birthdays, comforted scraped knees, and turned ordinary Tuesday afternoons into adventures.
What sets [Nanny's Name] apart is her intuitive understanding of what children need. She knows when to encourage independence and when to offer a comforting hug. She balances fun with discipline, creativity with routine, and always puts the children's wellbeing first.
Our family is only parting ways with [Nanny's Name] because [reason: relocation/children starting school full-time]. If circumstances were different, she would remain with us indefinitely. The family who welcomes her next is incredibly fortunate, and our children will carry the lessons she taught them throughout their lives.
With deepest gratitude and warmest regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Family]
Formal Reference Letter for Immigration or Visa Purposes
Subject: Employment Verification and Character Reference for [Nanny's Full Legal Name]
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter serves as formal verification of employment and character reference for [Nanny's Full Legal Name], passport number [number], who has been employed by our family as a professional nanny from [exact start date] to [present/end date].
During this period, [Nanny's Name] has been responsible for the full-time care of [number] minor children, performing duties including but not limited to: supervision, educational development, meal preparation, transportation, health monitoring, and household management related to childcare.
[Nanny's Name] has proven to be exceptionally trustworthy, reliable, and professional. She has consistently demonstrated good moral character, responsibility, and dedication to her duties. She maintains proper documentation, follows all safety protocols, and communicates effectively with our family.
Her employment with our family has been continuous and in good standing. She receives compensation of [amount] per [period] and works [number] hours per week. We have found her to be honest, law-abiding, and an exemplary employee in every respect.
This reference is provided to support [Nanny's Name]'s application for [visa type/immigration purpose]. I can confirm that her services are valued and needed by our family, and we fully support her application.
Should you require additional documentation or information, please contact me directly at [phone] or [email].
Respectfully submitted,
[Your Full Legal Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
Brief Email Recommendation for Interview Reference Check
Subject: Reference for [Nanny's Name]
Hello [Hiring Parent's Name],
Thank you for reaching out regarding [Nanny's Name]. I'm happy to provide a reference.
[Nanny's Name] worked with our family for [duration] caring for our [ages] children. She was consistently reliable, engaged, and professional. Our kids loved her, and she handled everything from daily routines to unexpected challenges with ease.
She's punctual, communicative, and brought wonderful creative energy to childcare activities. We parted ways only because [reason], and I'd rehire her in a heartbeat if our circumstances changed.
I strongly recommend her and am happy to discuss further by phone if helpful.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
Recommendation for Nanny Transitioning to Childcare Center Employment
Subject: Professional Recommendation for [Nanny's Name]
Dear [Childcare Director/Hiring Manager],
I am pleased to recommend [Nanny's Name] for a position at [Childcare Center Name]. She served as our family's nanny for [duration], and her skills and dedication would translate excellently to a group childcare setting.
[Nanny's Name] demonstrated strong capabilities in child development and early education. She created structured learning activities, maintained detailed records of developmental milestones, and adapted her approach to each child's unique needs and learning style. She successfully managed multiple children of different ages simultaneously, a skill directly applicable to classroom management.
Her strengths include conflict resolution, safety awareness, positive discipline techniques, and fostering inclusive, nurturing environments. She has experience with [specific relevant skills: potty training, special needs care, curriculum planning, etc.]. She also maintained excellent communication with parents through daily updates and regular check-ins.
[Nanny's Name] holds [certifications: CPR, First Aid, etc.] and consistently pursued professional development opportunities. She is organized, detail-oriented, and works well both independently and as part of a team.
I am confident she will bring the same enthusiasm, professionalism, and genuine care for children to your center that she brought to our home.
Please contact me at [contact information] for any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Credentials/Title if applicable]
Character Reference After Short-Term or Trial Employment
Subject: Reference for [Nanny's Name]
Dear Prospective Family,
I am writing to provide a reference for [Nanny's Name], who worked with our family for [duration: 3 months/during summer/as temporary care]. While our time together was brief, I gained valuable insights into her capabilities as a childcare provider.
During her time with us, [Nanny's Name] demonstrated [specific positive qualities observed]. She was particularly good at [specific strengths]. Our children responded well to her care style, and she handled the responsibilities we assigned with [reliability/creativity/professionalism].
Our arrangement ended because [honest reason: it was always temporary/our regular nanny returned/family circumstances changed], not due to any performance issues. Based on what I observed, I believe she has solid foundational skills in childcare.
I would note that [any relevant context: she was still developing certain skills/this was her first professional nanny position/she worked primarily with our toddler rather than older children]. However, her attitude, work ethic, and genuine care for children were evident throughout.
I'm happy to discuss my observations in more detail if you'd like to call me at [phone number].
Best,
[Your Name]
Academic/Professional Reference for Nanny Pursuing Further Education
Subject: Letter of Recommendation for [Nanny's Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically support [Nanny's Name]'s application to [program name] at [institution]. As her employer for [duration], I have witnessed firsthand her dedication to child development and her passion for early childhood education.
[Nanny's Name] has demonstrated exceptional commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. She regularly researched evidence-based childcare practices, implemented age-appropriate educational activities, and stayed current with developmental psychology principles. Her natural curiosity and analytical approach to understanding children's needs reflect genuine academic potential.
Beyond practical skills, she exhibited strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and reflective practice. She often discussed developmental theories, sought feedback to improve her approach, and showed intellectual engagement that goes beyond routine childcare. She maintained detailed observations of developmental milestones and learning progressions, demonstrating skills valuable for academic study.
[Nanny's Name] also displayed excellent time management, self-discipline, and the ability to balance multiple responsibilities—qualities essential for academic success. Her interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and communication abilities will serve her well in collaborative academic environments.
I believe [Nanny's Name] has both the practical foundation and intellectual capacity to excel in your program and make meaningful contributions to the field of early childhood education.
Please feel free to contact me at [contact information] if you need additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Professional Background]
LinkedIn Recommendation Message
I had the pleasure of working with [Nanny's Name] for [duration] as our family's childcare provider, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. She brought professionalism, creativity, and genuine warmth to caring for our [number] children.
[Nanny's Name] excels at child development, safety management, and creating enriching environments where children thrive. She's reliable, communicative, and handles both routine days and unexpected challenges with equal grace. Our children flourished under her care, developing new skills and confidence.
Any family would be fortunate to work with [Nanny's Name]. She's a dedicated professional who truly makes a difference in children's lives.
What is a Nanny Recommendation Letter and Why is it Important?
A nanny recommendation letter is a formal or informal document written by a previous employer (typically parents) that vouches for a nanny's skills, character, reliability, and performance in childcare. This letter serves multiple critical purposes:
- Employment verification - Confirms the nanny's work history, duration of employment, and responsibilities
- Character reference - Provides insight into the nanny's personality, trustworthiness, and interpersonal qualities
- Skills validation - Documents specific childcare competencies, certifications, and special abilities
- Professional credibility - Helps nannies build their career reputation and secure better positions
- Risk mitigation for new families - Gives prospective employers confidence in their hiring decision
- Legal documentation - Can support visa applications, background checks, or professional licensing
- Career advancement - Enables nannies to transition to childcare centers, teaching positions, or specialized roles
These letters carry significant weight because childcare involves trust, safety, and the wellbeing of families' most precious assets—their children. A strong recommendation can make the difference between getting hired or passed over, especially in competitive markets.
Who Should Write a Nanny Recommendation Letter?
- Primary employers - The parents or guardians who directly employed the nanny and observed daily interactions
- Both parents jointly - Particularly impactful when both sign, showing unified support
- The primary contact parent - Whoever had the most interaction and oversight of the nanny's work
- Previous employers - Multiple references from different families strengthen credibility
- Long-term employers - Those who worked with the nanny for extended periods (1+ years) provide deeper insights
- Professional household managers - In households with domestic staff coordinators
- Family members who observed care - Grandparents or adult relatives who frequently witnessed the nanny's work
- Single parents - Valid and complete references from solo-parent households
Less appropriate authors include friends, neighbors who didn't employ the nanny, or family members of the nanny herself, as these lack the employer-employee context that validates professional performance.
When Should You Provide a Nanny Recommendation Letter?
- Job searching - When the nanny is actively seeking new employment with another family
- Career transitions - When moving from private nanny work to daycare centers, preschools, or teaching positions
- Immigration processes - For visa applications, work permits, or citizenship proceedings requiring employment verification
- Professional certifications - When the nanny is pursuing childcare credentials or licenses
- Educational applications - For college programs, training courses, or professional development in early childhood education
- Upon termination of employment - Ideally provided at the end of a positive working relationship, regardless of reason
- After trial periods - Even short-term positive experiences can warrant brief references
- Proactive goodwill - Offering unsolicited letters to valued nannies as they prepare for future opportunities
- Reference requests - When prospective employers contact you directly for verification
- Legal proceedings - Occasionally needed for custody cases, family court matters, or professional disputes
- Annual reviews - Some families provide updated letters yearly to document ongoing employment
Timing matters: write while memories are fresh and details are accurate, ideally within days or weeks of the employment ending or the request being made.
Essential Elements and Structure of a Nanny Recommendation Letter
- Heading with contact information - Your name, address, phone, email, and date (for formal letters)
- Proper salutation - Addressed to specific recipient when known, or "To Whom It May Concern" when general
- Opening statement - Clear declaration of your intent to recommend, including the nanny's full name
- Employment details - Specific dates of employment, hours worked, and basic job description
- Children's information - Number of children, ages during care period, any special needs or circumstances
- Responsibilities overview - Core duties performed (supervision, meal prep, transportation, education, etc.)
- Performance assessment - Specific examples of excellent work, skills demonstrated, and achievements
- Character evaluation - Trustworthiness, reliability, integrity, work ethic, and interpersonal qualities
- Standout qualities - What made this nanny exceptional or memorable compared to others
- Specific anecdotes - Concrete examples or stories that illustrate key strengths (adds authenticity)
- Reason for departure - Honest explanation of why the employment relationship ended
- Closing recommendation - Clear, unambiguous statement of recommendation strength
- Availability for follow-up - Offer to provide additional information via phone or email
- Professional signature - Your full name, title/relationship to children, and signature (if printed)
- Optional attachments - Certifications, training records, or performance reviews if relevant
Structure should flow logically: introduction → employment context → performance details → character assessment → conclusion with strong endorsement.
How to Write an Effective Nanny Recommendation Letter
- Start with preparation - Review employment dates, responsibilities, and specific accomplishments before writing
- Choose appropriate tone - Match formality to purpose (visa application vs. casual reference check)
- Be specific and detailed - Generic praise lacks credibility; include concrete examples and measurable outcomes
- Focus on relevant skills - Emphasize abilities most applicable to the nanny's next position
- Tell short stories - Brief anecdotes about how the nanny handled challenges or delighted your family
- Address all domains - Cover technical skills, emotional intelligence, reliability, and character
- Be honest but kind - If you can't write positively, decline gracefully rather than write lukewarm references
- Quantify when possible - "Cared for three children ages 2-8" is stronger than "cared for multiple children"
- Explain departure context - Clarify whether leaving was the nanny's choice, your choice, or circumstantial
- Proofread carefully - Errors undermine credibility and suggest lack of attention to detail
- Use professional formatting - Clean, readable layout with proper spacing and font
- Make it accessible - Provide both printed letters and PDF versions for electronic submission
- Update if needed - If circumstances change or you remember important details, revise and resend
- Get consent first - Confirm the nanny wants you as a reference and knows you'll be contacted
- Respond promptly - When contacted for references, reply within 24-48 hours to respect everyone's timeline
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Nanny Recommendation Letters
- Being too vague - Generic statements like "she was great" provide no useful information
- Exaggerating or lying - Misrepresentations can backfire legally and damage your credibility
- Including irrelevant information - Personal details about the nanny's family, appearance, or unrelated life circumstances
- Damning with faint praise - Lukewarm language signals problems (if you can't be enthusiastic, decline)
- Omitting important context - Failing to explain special circumstances affecting performance
- Writing when angry - Never write immediately after conflict; emotions cloud judgment
- Ignoring red flags - Feeling obligated to write positive letters despite legitimate concerns endangers other families
- Using template language - Obviously copied recommendations lack authenticity and impact
- Forgetting to proofread - Typos, grammatical errors, or wrong names destroy professionalism
- Being too brief - One-paragraph letters suggest lack of engagement or weak endorsement
- Overemphasizing personal affection - "We loved her like family" can overshadow professional competence
- Making unsupported claims - Stating skills or certifications you didn't directly observe or verify
- Discussing salary without permission - Compensation details should only be shared when legally required or authorized
- Violating privacy - Sharing confidential family information or the nanny's personal circumstances inappropriately
- Comparing to other nannies - Focus on this individual's merits rather than ranking against others
- Using informal language inappropriately - Match tone to context; casual emails work differently than visa letters
Proper Formatting Guidelines for Nanny Recommendation Letters
- Length considerations - Aim for 250-500 words (one full page) for comprehensive letters; 100-200 words for brief email references
- Font and presentation - Use professional fonts (Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri) in 11-12pt size
- Document format - Business letter format for formal references; professional email format for informal ones
- Letterhead usage - Personal or business letterhead adds credibility but isn't required
- Date inclusion - Always include the date written; recent letters carry more weight
- Spacing and margins - Single-spaced with double spaces between paragraphs; 1-inch margins
- Signature requirements - Handwritten signature for printed letters; typed name for emails
- File format - PDF preferred for electronic submission (preserves formatting); Word doc as backup
- Multiple copies - Provide both printed and digital versions when possible
- Delivery method - Match mode to recipient preference (email, mail, hand-delivered, uploaded to platform)
- Tone appropriateness - Formal for institutions/legal purposes; warm but professional for families; conversational for casual inquiries
- Language precision - Use clear, direct language; avoid jargon unless industry-standard terminology
- Professional email etiquette - Clear subject line, proper greeting, concise body, complete contact information in signature
- Confidentiality markers - If letter contains sensitive information, mark as "Confidential" at top
Tricks and Tips for Writing Outstanding Nanny Recommendations
- Lead with impact - Start with your strongest endorsement or most impressive quality in the opening paragraph
- Use the "situation-action-result" framework - Describe a challenge, how the nanny handled it, and the positive outcome
- Include developmental outcomes - Mention specific ways children grew or progressed under the nanny's care
- Address unstated concerns - Proactively cover reliability, trust, and safety if these are paramount to new employers
- Offer enthusiastic availability - "Please don't hesitate to call" signals genuine confidence in your recommendation
- Write promptly after request - Fresh memories produce more detailed, authentic letters
- Keep backup copies - Save all letters written for your records and potential future updates
- Customize for purpose - Tailor emphasis based on whether it's for employment, immigration, education, etc.
- Use power words - "Exceptional," "consistently," "proactive," "intuitive," "invaluable" carry more weight than "good" or "nice"
- Mention family fit factors - If relevant, note the nanny's ability to adapt to different parenting styles or household cultures
- Include emergency handling - Brief mention of how the nanny managed urgent situations demonstrates capability under pressure
- Highlight continuing relationship - If you stay in touch, mention it as evidence of genuine positive experience
- Address any gaps honestly - If there are any weaknesses, frame constructively with context about circumstances
- Get second opinion - Have a partner or friend review before sending to catch unclear language or missing information
- Provide context for international families - If writing for someone from another country, explain cultural norms that might need clarification
What to Do After Sending a Nanny Recommendation Letter
- Confirm receipt - Follow up within a few days to ensure the letter was received by the intended recipient
- Be available for calls - Keep phone accessible for potential reference checks from prospective employers
- Maintain consistency - If contacted verbally, ensure your statements align with what you wrote
- Respond to inquiries promptly - Answer follow-up questions within 24-48 hours
- Keep records - Save copies of all recommendations provided for documentation purposes
- Update if circumstances change - If you learn new relevant information, consider sending an addendum
- Respect confidentiality - Don't discuss the letter's contents with others except as authorized
- Don't promise outcomes - Avoid guaranteeing the nanny will be hired; your role is providing honest assessment
- Check in with the nanny - Ask if the letter met their needs or if additional references are required
- Offer additional formats - Be willing to reformat or adjust emphasis if the nanny requests for different opportunities
- No follow-up usually needed - Unless specifically requested or in legal contexts, one letter typically suffices without repeated checking in
- Prepare for reference calls - Have notes ready about key points in case prospective employers call for verbal verification
- Inform of timeline - If you'll be traveling or unavailable, let the nanny know in advance
Advantages and Disadvantages of Providing Nanny Recommendation Letters
Advantages:
- Helps a valued employee - Supports someone who provided excellent care for your children
- Pays forward good practice - Contributes to professional standards in the childcare industry
- Assists other families - Helps prospective employers make informed, confident hiring decisions
- Documents your experience - Creates formal record of employment relationship
- Maintains positive relationships - Shows appreciation and can keep doors open for future needs
- Enhances nanny's career - Strong recommendations significantly improve employment prospects and compensation
- Fulfills ethical obligation - If service was good, recommendation is appropriate professional courtesy
- Minimal time investment - 30-60 minutes to write can make enormous difference in someone's life
Disadvantages:
- Legal liability concerns - Inaccurate or negligent recommendations could create legal exposure
- Time commitment - Writing thoughtful letters and responding to reference calls requires effort
- Emotional labor - Can be difficult if relationship ended poorly or performance was mixed
- Privacy considerations - Must balance being helpful while protecting family confidentiality
- Potential for misuse - Letters could theoretically be altered or used in unintended contexts
- Obligation pressure - May feel compelled to write even when uncomfortable doing so
- Future contact expectations - Opening door to ongoing requests for references or updates
Comparing Nanny Recommendation Letters to Similar References
Nanny Recommendation vs. Babysitter Reference:
- Nanny letters emphasize long-term relationships, professional development, and comprehensive childcare
- Babysitter references are typically shorter, focus on reliability and basic safety, and cover occasional care
Nanny Recommendation vs. Daycare Employee Reference:
- Nanny letters highlight one-on-one or small-group dynamics and household integration
- Daycare references emphasize classroom management, curriculum implementation, and team collaboration
Nanny Recommendation vs. General Employment Reference:
- Nanny letters uniquely address trust, intimacy of home environment, and parental partnership
- Standard job references focus more on technical skills, productivity metrics, and workplace conduct
Written Letter vs. Verbal Reference:
- Written letters provide permanent documentation, detailed assessment, and legal protection
- Phone references allow interactive dialogue, clarifying questions, and spontaneous conversation
Proactive Letter vs. On-Demand Reference:
- Unsolicited letters empower the nanny to apply widely without involving you each time
- On-demand references allow you to tailor responses to specific positions and employer questions
Alternative approaches:
- LinkedIn recommendations - Public, visible, builds online professional presence
- Reference list - Simply providing contact information rather than prewritten letters
- Video testimonials - Increasingly popular, adds personal dimension and authenticity
- Performance reviews - Formal annual evaluations can supplement traditional recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions About Nanny Recommendation Letters
Should I provide a letter if the nanny's performance was just "okay"? If you cannot write an enthusiastic recommendation, it's better to politely decline. Tepid letters can hurt more than help.
Can I reuse the same letter for multiple job applications? Generic letters work for most situations, but customizing for specific contexts (employment vs. immigration) strengthens impact.
What if I'm contacted about a nanny I fired? Be honest but professional. Focus on factual performance issues without emotional language. You can decline to provide a recommendation.
How long should I remain available as a reference? Typically 2-3 years after employment ends, though there's no strict rule. Decline gracefully if too much time has passed for accurate recall.
Should I mention the nanny's salary? Only include compensation if legally required (visa applications) or with the nanny's explicit permission.
What if I don't remember specific details? Review old calendars, texts, or photos to jog memory. If details are too fuzzy, keep the letter brief or acknowledge the time gap honestly.
Can I ask the nanny to draft their own letter for me to sign? This is common practice but review carefully and revise significantly to ensure it reflects your authentic voice and honest assessment.
Should I address why the nanny is leaving/left? Yes, briefly explaining the departure reason provides important context and prevents speculation about problems.
What if the new family asks questions beyond what I feel comfortable answering? Set boundaries politely: "I'm not comfortable discussing that aspect" or "I didn't observe that particular skill area."
Do I need to have the letter notarized? Only for specific legal purposes like immigration applications. Most childcare employment situations don't require notarization.
Important Requirements Before Writing a Nanny Recommendation Letter
- Obtain explicit permission - Always ask the nanny if they want you as a reference before writing or responding
- Verify employment dates - Check records to ensure accurate start and end dates
- Review job responsibilities - Confirm which duties the nanny actually performed versus intended role
- Gather documentation - Collect certifications, training records, or performance notes if available
- Confirm contact preferences - Ask which phone number and email the nanny wants you to provide
- Understand the purpose - Know whether letter is for employment, education, immigration, or other specific needs
- Check legal requirements - Some jurisdictions have laws about what can/cannot be included in references
- Clarify confidentiality expectations - Discuss what family information can be shared and what must remain private
- Get partner's input - If applicable, consult with spouse/partner to ensure consistent perspective
- Consider your availability - Ensure you can respond to potential follow-up calls within reasonable timeframes
- Assess your objectivity - If relationship was too personal or emotional, consider whether you're the appropriate reference
- Know your limitations - Don't make claims about skills or qualities you didn't directly observe
- Have backup references ready - If you can't provide a strong recommendation, help the nanny identify someone else who can
