Nanny Care

Studies have shown that consistent routine is associated with positive developmental outcomes for children across physical, mental, cognitive, self-regulation, social-emotional, and academic domains (Selman & Dilworth-Bart, 2023).

It makes sense; routines help children develop confidence and build positive habits. Structured days that combine work and play also encourage self-discipline, instilling an ability to find balance between vital daily tasks and fun. These fundamentals set the tone for positive growth and development throughout childhood and adolescence.1

The Role of Caregivers

A child’s day is organized and implemented by their caregivers. And while older children and teens might have a little more input, their routines are still largely defined by parents, teachers, and other responsible adults. 

Consistency from caregivers can help children feel in control. For example, if a child knows their parent always gives them 30 minutes to play after dinner, it will foster feelings of comfort and security.2 On the flipside, a lack of routine or frequent curveballs may lead to increased anxiety. 

In the real world, it’s unrealistic to expect parents to keep their children’s lives 100% consistent all the time. Life happens, and children are resilient. In fact, flexibility and adaptability are important skills to learn, too. 

With all this in mind, an approach that aims to keep expectations, rules, and routines consistent most of the time is perhaps the best (and most realistic) goal.

In short, consistency can:

  • Promote feelings of safety and security
  • Help children understand expectations
  • Help children build self-discipline
  • Improve behavior 
  • Prepare children for adult life

Why Does Achieving Consistency Feel so Difficult?

The following common scenarios can make providing consistent child care challenging for parents:

  • Work commitments. For example, if one or both parents have a profession that often involves attending impromptu meetings, working irregular hours, or staying late to finish projects.
  • Busy schedules. Whether it’s work, social plans, or other commitments, modern life is chaotic. Crammed schedules can make it much more difficult to provide consistent child care every day.
  • Conflicting parenting styles. Consistency isn’t just about routine; one caregiver contradicting another can also cause inconsistency.1 For example, it may be confusing if one parent allows dinner to be eaten on the couch, while the other insists on sitting at the dining table. Inconsistent expectations may make children more likely to push back against rules.1
  • Emergencies. An emergency can throw off even the most consistent of parents.

How can a Nanny Care Agency Provide Consistency for Children?

Keeping a routine, even when the unexpected happens

You’ll be able to find a talented nanny who’s consistently available when you need them. For example, if you require nanny care on weekdays while you’re at work, an agency like Oliver’s Nannies can match you with an expert available during these hours. 

What’s more, if your regular nanny isn’t available or you need spontaneous child care outside of your usual hours, we’ll have another nanny that complements your parenting style sent to your home at the drop of a dime. With a FlexCare nanny ready to come over at a moment’s notice, your children’s usual routine needn’t be interrupted next time you have a last-minute work meeting or commitment.

Matching you with nanny care that mirrors your own parenting style

Consistency in child care comes in many different forms. A practical daily routine is important, but so are consistent rules, consequences, and expectations. The right nanny care agency will match you with a child care expert who understands and believes in your personal parenting style. 

For example, we classify each of our nannies as a Nurturer, Leader, or Engager based on their nanny care methods. We also conduct in-depth interviews with families, in which we explore everything from a child’s personality, to what incentives or discipline they are used to (and respond best to). 

This thorough process ensures families are matched with a nanny whose approach closely aligns with their own. Ultimately, by collecting vital information on a family’s child care style and connecting them with a fitting nanny, children get the consistent care they deserve.

Get Consistent Nanny Care in 2025 With Oliver’s Nannies

Ultimately, consistency helps children feel calmer and get the most from each day. It also lays the foundations for a well-balanced, healthy lifestyle. Our trusted and experienced local nannies understand the importance of routine and personalized care. 

If you sign up to our FlexCare program, a nanny will be ready to step in and pick up your child’s usual routine whenever they’re needed to maintain consistency and harmony in your home.

Get in touch today to get matched with a reliable nanny who effortlessly complements your parenting style in 2025.

Study Reference

Selman, S. B., & Dilworth-Bart, J. E. (2023). Routines and child development: A systematic review. Journal of Family Theory and Review, 16(3), 272-328. https://doi.org/10.1111/jftr.12549.