Trial Days Done Right: Setting Up a Successful Working Trial
You’ve reviewed resumes, conducted interviews, and narrowed down your shortlist to one standout candidate. But before you offer the role, there’s one more important step: the trial.
A nanny trial isn’t just a formality. It’s a window into the real-life dynamics that can’t be fully captured through interviews or reference calls. It’s an opportunity—for you, your children, and the nanny—to assess whether this match is truly the right fit.
At Trusted Nanny Match, we believe trials are one of the most important parts of the hiring process. Not because they’re about perfection, but because they reveal personality, rhythm, adaptability, and connection. Here's how to make the most of it.
It’s Not a Test—It’s a Preview
A successful trial isn't about evaluating performance under pressure; it's about inviting the nanny into your home and offering a genuine sense of what the day-to-day experience will be like.
Instead of watching for flawless execution, look for qualities that signal alignment with your family’s values: kindness, initiative, patience, and the ability to pivot gracefully. How does the nanny respond when your toddler refuses their lunch? Do they find playful ways to re-engage your preschooler when the mood shifts? Do they ask thoughtful questions or anticipate needs?
Likewise, consider what your family is offering in return. A strong trial experience is two-sided. It allows the nanny to assess whether your family dynamic, communication style, and expectations feel like a fit for their skills and personality.
Build a Trial That Reflects Real Life
One of the most common mistakes we see is families over-curating a trial day—cleaning the house top to bottom, clearing their calendar, and planning a picture-perfect schedule. While well-intentioned, this doesn’t offer the clarity a trial is meant to provide.
Instead, consider what a typical workday might look like for this nanny. If the role involves solo care while you're at work, spend part of the trial away from the home so the nanny can take the lead. If you’ll be overlapping in the home or co-parenting certain parts of the day, mirror that dynamic. Give the nanny space to step in, make choices, and develop rapport—without micromanagement.
Your child’s response is also key. Sometimes little ones take a while to warm up. Other times, they’ll bond instantly. Neither is right or wrong—but pay attention to how the nanny supports the transition. Do they observe carefully before jumping in? Do they stay calm if your child cries or clings?
These in-between moments speak volumes.
Clarity Is Kindness
Going into a trial with clear communication sets everyone up for success. Before the day arrives, share the basics: your child’s schedule, favorite foods and toys, allergy or safety concerns, screen time rules, and any quirks about your home or routines. Don’t be afraid to write it down—a nanny will likely appreciate having a simple reference.
On the day of, offer a warm welcome. Introduce the nanny to your child (or children), show them around the home, and let them know where they can place their belongings. Let them know how they’ll be compensated for the trial and when you’ll check in afterwards.
Many families find it helpful to stay nearby for the first part of the trial before gradually stepping away. This “gentle transition” helps your child adjust and allows the nanny to observe your parenting approach before taking the reins.
Embrace Imperfections—and Stay Curious
No trial day goes exactly as planned. Maybe your child skips their nap. Maybe there’s a spilled snack or a missed shoe. That’s okay.
In fact, these small disruptions offer insight into how a nanny thinks on their feet. The way they handle a fussy toddler or a minor mishap can reveal more than any interview question ever could.
At the end of the day, take a few minutes to debrief. Ask how the day felt from their perspective. What questions came up? Was anything unclear or unexpected? Share your observations as well. If there were areas of uncertainty, approach them with curiosity. “I noticed Jake seemed extra tired today—what did you find worked best for calming him?” is far more helpful than pointing out what went wrong.
The best trials end with mutual understanding, not just a decision.
Trial Timing and Follow-Up
Most trials last between one to five days, though some families prefer multiple shorter sessions. What matters most is quality over quantity—enough time for meaningful engagement without overwhelming the nanny or the child.
And no matter the outcome, always compensate a nanny fairly for their time. Trials are professional commitments, and paying appropriately reflects your respect for their skills and energy.
If the trial went well and you're ready to move forward, reach out promptly to share next steps. And if it didn’t feel like the right match, communicate your decision clearly and kindly.
Remember, a trial is not just about finding the right nanny—it’s about making sure your family is the right fit for them, too.
How Trusted Nanny Match Supports Families Through the Trial Process
When you work with Trusted Nanny Match, you're not alone in navigating this important step. We help families design trials that are realistic, respectful, and informative—so you can feel confident in your decision, whether it's a yes or a not quite.
Our team helps set expectations on both sides, provides tools for effective onboarding, and recommends candidates who are not only qualified, but truly aligned with your family’s values.
Because at the end of the day, a successful hire isn’t just about skills—it’s about trust, compatibility, connection, and shared care for the most important people in your world: your children.
If you’re looking for a nanny who feels like the right fit—and a partner to guide you through every step—we’re here to help.