Everything you need to know about hiring a summer nanny

Summer break usually brings sunshine, free time … and a need for childcare backup. Enter: the summer nanny. Whether you're a working parent or need structured support while school’s out, a summer nanny can help keep your household running smoothly and your kids happily engaged.

What is a summer nanny? 

A summer nanny is a short-term caregiver hired specifically for the summer months. They may work full-time or part-time hours, depending on your family’s needs, and provide care, supervision, and enrichment for kids while school is out. Unlike occasional babysitters or camp counselors, summer nannies work more consistently with your family, often daily, offering stability and familiarity during a time when routines can easily slip.

What do summer nannies do?

Their responsibilities can vary, but here are some typical duties:

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• Creating daily schedules with fun, age-appropriate activities

• Planning outings (think: museum trips, nature walks, or library days)

• Preparing meals or snacks

• Helping with summer learning or reading goals

• Driving to and from camps or sports practices

• Light housework related to childcare (e.g., cleaning up toys or dishes)

Some summer nannies also support educational activities or specialize in areas like art, STEM, or sports, making them an excellent complement to (or alternative for) traditional camps.

How are summer nannies different from year-round nannies or babysitters?

People hire summer nannies for seasonal coverage, typically from late May through August. While babysitters may come and go, summer nannies are usually with your family on a more consistent basis.

Year-round nannies may be focused on long-term developmental support and often commit to extended contracts. Summer nannies, by contrast, are usually college students, teachers, or camp counselors looking for meaningful short-term work during their break.

When should I start looking for a summer nanny?

Many families begin their search as early as February or March. The best candidates, especially those with experience in teaching or childcare, tend to get booked quickly.

You can find summer nannies through:

• Local community boards or parent groups

• Reputable nanny placement agencies

• Online job platforms (like Care.com or UrbanSitter)

• Personal referrals from friends or school connections

Make sure to check references, schedule interviews, and clarify expectations early. A written contract outlining hours, duties, and pay can help avoid miscommunication.

What should I look for in a summer nanny?

Here are a few qualities to prioritize:

• Experience with kids in the same age group as yours

• Enthusiasm for planning activities (not just watching screens)

• Flexibility with changing schedules or needs

• Responsibility when it comes to safety and reliability

• Strong communication skills with both kids and adults

Don’t forget the practical stuff, too: a clean driving record (if driving is required), CPR certification, and a clear background check.

What does it cost to hire a summer nanny?

Rates vary widely depending on where you live, the nanny’s experience, and what responsibilities they’ll take on. According to ZipRecruiter, summer nannies in the U.S. earn $17 per hour on average.

Some families offer weekly rates or additional perks like gas reimbursements, paid outings, or meals.

Is a summer nanny right for your family?

A summer nanny can be a huge help for families looking for consistent care over the summer. If your child thrives on one-on-one attention or struggles in large group settings, or if you need help juggling work and parenting, a summer nanny may be a great fit.

If you're weighing the options between summer camps, babysitters, and nannies, consider your budget, your schedule, and what kind of environment your child flourishes in.†

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

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