Childcare in Seattle can be tough. Between high living costs, long commutes, and packed daycare waitlists, many families are looking for new options. One solution that’s becoming more popular? Nanny shares.
What’s a Nanny Share?
A nanny share is when two families hire the same nanny and split the cost. The nanny takes care of the children of both families together, usually at one family’s home.
It’s a great way to get personalized, in-home care — without paying the full cost of a private nanny.
Why Seattle Families Like Nanny Shares
Save Money
Hiring a full-time nanny in Seattle is expensive. But when two families share, the cost drops — sometimes close to what you’d pay for daycare, but with more personalized care and fewer kids.
Built-in Social Time
Your child gets a playmate! Nanny shares offer a small group setting, which helps kids learn how to share, take turns, and play together — without the chaos of a big daycare.
Flexible Schedules
Daycares have strict hours and a lot of closures throughout the year. With a nanny share, families can build a schedule that fits their needs — including early mornings, late shifts, or weekend help. This is great for Seattle parents in tech, healthcare, or other demanding fields.
What Can Be Tricky
Finding the Right Family
Your nanny share partner should have similar parenting values — like discipline style, screen time rules, and routines. Differences can cause tension if you’re not aligned.
Managing Schedules & Locations
Seattle traffic and bad weather can make logistics harder. Will you take turns hosting? Who drops off and picks up? What if one family moves or needs to change schedules?
Shared Employment
You and the other family are both the nanny’s employers. You’ll need to agree on pay, time off, taxes, and how to handle changes — like if one family leaves the share.
Tips for Making It Work
1. Find a Like-Minded Family
Start with your network — neighbors, friends, school parents, or parenting groups. Look for someone who lives nearby and has kids around the same age.
2. Get Everything in Writing
Create a comprehensive agreement that at a minimum covers:
- Pay and schedule
- Who hosts and when
- Sick day policies
- Communication and conflict resolution
It protects everyone and helps avoid future confusion.
3. Hire the Right Nanny
Look for a nanny who:
- Has experience with multiples
- Communicates well
- Can handle different parenting styles
- Is flexible and reliable
All parents should be involved in the decision-making process.
4. Know the Rules
In Seattle, both families must:
- Pay employer taxes
- Follow sick leave laws
- Comply with the Domestic Workers Ordinance
Using a payroll service can help make this easier.
5. Keep Talking
Have regular check-ins with the other family and the nanny. Use shared calendars or group chats to stay in sync.
What If Things Don’t Go as Planned?
Even well-planned shares hit bumps. Be ready for:
- Sick kids or a sick nanny
- Schedule changes
- Developmental differences between kids
- One family moving or leaving the share
Have backup plans and be flexible — that’s key.
Bonus: You Might Make Friends, Too
Many nanny share families become close. They celebrate birthdays, share meals, or even vacation together. You don’t have to — but building a good relationship can make the whole experience more rewarding.
Is a Nanny Share Right for You?
Choose a nanny share if you:
- Want personalized care but without the expense of a full-time nanny
- Like the idea of your child having a playmate
- Need a more flexible schedule than daycare allows
- Are willing to work closely with another family
Skip it if you:
- Want total control over your child’s care
- Have a highly unpredictable schedule
- Prefer not to share decision-making with another family
- Cannot commit to a minimum guaranteed hours and schedule for at least a year
How Seattle Nanny Network Can Help
Setting up a nanny share can be a lot — but you don’t have to do it alone. Seattle Nanny Network has been helping families with shares for decades to:
- Find experienced nannies who’ve done shares before
- Connect with compatible families
- Create strong nanny share agreements
- Handle taxes and payroll
Whether you’re just getting started or need help fine-tuning your current setup, we’re here to guide you.
In a city like Seattle, nanny shares can offer the best of both worlds — quality care and cost savings. With the right match, clear communication, and some flexibility, a nanny share can be a great childcare solution for your family.