A professional nanny undertakes nursery duties as a core part of the holistic care they provide to a child. These duties are child-focused and encompass all aspects of the child’s daily routine, including feeding, hygiene, sleep, development, and play, ensuring that the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs are met in a nurturing and structured environment. Nursery duties support the child’s wellbeing by maintaining clean and safe spaces, preparing nutritious meals, and fostering age-appropriate learning and independence. It is important to distinguish these responsibilities from general housekeeping, which involves cleaning, laundry, and household maintenance unrelated to the child. Tasks such as tidying adult areas, cleaning bathrooms used by the whole family, or managing household supplies fall under housekeeping or house management roles and would typically only be expected of a nanny/housekeeper or a designated housekeeper. A professional nanny focuses solely on the child’s needs, with any wider domestic duties clearly outlined and agreed upon in advance.

Newborn (0–3 months)

1. Feeding & Nutrition

• Preparing and sterilising bottles following NHS guidelines
• Measuring and mixing formula safely
• Handling and storing expressed breast milk correctly
• Assisting with breastfeeding support (e.g. correct latching, comfortable positioning)
• Winding the baby properly after feeds to prevent colic
• Tracking and recording feed volumes and timing for parents

2. Hygiene & Care

• Changing nappies regularly, checking for nappy rash or skin irritation
• Using suitable barrier creams and wipes as agreed with parents
• Giving sponge baths or full baths depending on baby’s age and comfort
• Cleaning and sterilising dummies, teethers, and any teething aids
• Maintaining a sterile and tidy changing area and cot
• Washing and folding baby garments, bedding, and muslins

3. Sleep Support

• Creating a calm and quiet environment to promote good sleep habits
• Using white noise, blackout blinds, or other aids if agreed with parents
• Adhering to safe sleep guidance (e.g. baby on their back, cot free of pillows)
• Keeping a sleep diary to identify patterns or disturbances

4. Health & Development

• Encouraging daily tummy time for muscle development
• Watching for early developmental signs (cooing, tracking, smiling)
• Recording concerns about feeding, sleep, or health for discussion with parents
• Ensuring temperature in nursery is appropriate (16-20°C)

5. Nursery Organisation

• Keeping all supplies well stocked and within expiry dates
• Rotating clothes and toys based on size and stage
• Ensuring changing bags are always stocked for outings (nappies, wipes, spare clothes, bottle)

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Infant (4–12 months)

1. Feeding & Weaning

• Preparing fresh vegetable and fruit purees
• Introducing common allergens gradually with parental approval
• Adhering to NHS guidelines on salt and sugar limits
• Encouraging baby to self-feed safely (baby-led weaning)
• Maintaining high levels of hygiene during meal prep

2. Daily Care

• Frequent nappy changes and monitoring of output
• Dressing the baby in weather-appropriate layers
• Keeping baby’s living areas tidy and free of choking hazards
• Cleaning high chair and sterilising bowls and spoons

3. Sleep Routine

• Recognising sleep cues and following age-appropriate nap schedules
• Managing sleep transitions and regressions with sensitivity
• Offering consistent comfort strategies for sleep (e.g. comforters, bedtime stories)

4. Development & Play

• Using rattles, books, and sensory toys to encourage development
• Introducing basic sign language if requested
• Supervising crawling and early walking safely
• Attending baby classes and playgroups if permitted

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Toddler (1–3 years)

1. Feeding & Nutrition

• Cooking fresh meals that are age-appropriate and balanced
• Presenting new foods repeatedly to encourage acceptance
• Ensuring proper hydration throughout the day
• Using child-safe plates and cutlery to promote independence

2. Toileting & Hygiene

• Changing nappies or managing pull-ups as appropriate
• Assisting with toilet training (use of potty, wiping, praise techniques)
• Encouraging independence with hygiene routines (washing hands, brushing teeth)
• Keeping bathroom tidy and stocked with child-friendly products

3. Routine & Structure

• Maintaining a clear daily routine with flexibility
• Ensuring regular time for naps, snacks, and structured activities
• Preparing and leading themed activity days (e.g. colours, animals)

4. Learning & Development

• Supporting language development through conversation and storytelling
• Using puzzles, blocks, and musical toys to enhance motor and cognitive skills
• Supervising safe outdoor play to develop coordination and confidence
• Tracking milestones and sharing observations with parents

5. Behaviour & Social Skills

• Modelling and reinforcing positive behaviour and kindness
• Handling tantrums with patience and consistent strategies
• Facilitating parallel and cooperative play with other children

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Preschool (3–5 years)

1. Meal Preparation

• Preparing hot and cold meals according to dietary preferences
• Encouraging table etiquette and helping children understand mealtime expectations
• Discussing healthy food choices through games or stories

2. Personal Hygiene

• Promoting independent toileting and proper wiping techniques
• Supervising tooth brushing and hand washing
• Encouraging self-dressing with age-appropriate clothing

3. Educational Support

• Helping children recognise letters, numbers, and shapes
• Reading books and encouraging questions
• Supporting phonics and name-writing (if attending nursery or pre-school)
• Incorporating learning into play (e.g. counting blocks, nature walks)

4. Routine & Emotional Development

• Preparing children for school-like routines (sitting for activities, turn-taking)
• Discussing feelings and helping name emotions
• Promoting confidence and independence (e.g. packing their bag)

5. Social & Outdoor Activities

• Planning and supervising playdates and group activities
• Visiting parks, museums, and educational events with consent
• Encouraging respectful interactions and cooperative games

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Older Children (5–12 years)

• Preparing for school (clothes, bag, lunch)
• Helping with homework, reading, and creative projects
• Supervising screen time and encouraging active play
• Planning holiday activities or outings
• Reinforcing responsibility and routine (bedtime, tidying, chores)

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General Nursery Duties (All Ages)

• Keeping all child-related areas clean, safe, and well organised
• Doing the child’s laundry separately and appropriately
• Logging daily activities (meals, sleep, mood, accidents)
• Administering medication with parental permission and proper training
• Following safeguarding and first aid protocols
• Communicating clearly and professionally with parents
• Attending appointments or classes with the child if required

For details about housekeeping duties and responsibilities, click here…