The first five years of a child’s life are extraordinary. Research shows that 90% of brain development happens before age five. In these years, children learn not only how to walk and talk, but how to connect, trust, and see the world.

That’s why choosing the right nanny is about so much more than supervision. The right nanny can nurture your child’s body, mind, and soul in those formative years, shaping habits, confidence, and emotional wellbeing that last a lifetime.

So what should families look for in a nanny for babies and toddlers? And how does Cleo Nanny Co ensure your child is supported in the most holistic way?

  1. Continuity and Trust

Babies and toddlers thrive on stability. A revolving door of carers can be unsettling. The right nanny becomes a safe and familiar anchor in your child’s world.

What to look for:

  • A nanny who can commit long term
  • Someone who values consistency and rhythm
  • An agency that prioritises continuity of care

The Cleo Difference:
We focus on matching families with the right nanny for the long term. Continuity of care builds trust, security, and a deep bond between your child and their nanny.

  1. Developmental Support

Early years are the foundation of lifelong learning. A great nanny goes beyond keeping children safe — they weave learning and growth into everyday life.

What to look for:

  • Understanding of early childhood development
  • Play-based learning through stories, music, and exploration
  • Encouragement of independence in small, age-appropriate ways

The Cleo Difference:
We train and support our nannies in holistic child development philosophies:

  • Montessori: Building independence (pouring water, tidying toys).
  • Steiner: Storytelling, song, and rhythm to nurture imagination.
  • Reggio Emilia: Encouraging curiosity and exploration through play.
  • Dan Siegel: Helping children develop emotional intelligence — “name it to tame it.”

This means your baby or toddler does not just care for, but supported to thrive.

 

  1. Warmth and Connection

Babies and toddlers need more than structure — they need love and attunement. A great nanny is someone who tunes in, notices cues and responds with empathy.

What to look for:

  • Warmth and patience
  • A calm, responsive presence
  • Emotional intelligence and empathy

The Cleo Difference:
We personally vet every nanny not just for experience, but also for warmth and emotional intelligence — qualities that are just as important as skills.

  1. Communication and Transparency

Parents need confidence that their child’s day is going well. The best nannies communicate openly and reliably.

What to look for:

  • Updates about naps, meals, play, and milestones
  • A clear system for communication
  • Willingness to partner with parents

The Cleo Difference:
With the Cleo App, parents can:

  • Store family profiles securely
  • Share schedules and routines with their nanny
  • Receive secure updates, photos, and activity logs

This helps parents feel connected and reassured, even on their busiest days.

  1. Practical Support That Lightens the Load

A nanny for babies and toddlers often wears many hat,  not only caring for children but supporting the rhythm of family life.

What to look for:

  • Ability to prepare healthy snacks and meals
  • Light household tasks connected to the children (laundry, tidying toys)
  • Flexibility to adapt to family needs

The Cleo Difference:
Our nannies are experienced in balancing developmental play with practical support, so you come home to children who are settled, engaged, and happy.

A Day in the Life with a Cleo Nanny

What does this look like in practice?

  • Singing songs with your baby while preparing lunch (language + connection).
  • Reading the same story each afternoon to create rhythm and comfort.
  • Sensory play with natural materials — sand, water, textures (brain development).
  • Supporting toddlers to set the table (independence + responsibility).
  • Taking a mindful breath together when big feelings arise (emotional regulation).

Everyday care becomes an opportunity for growth.

Why Families Choose Cleo Nanny Co

  • Continuity of care for stability and trust
  • Holistic training for child development
  • Warm, personally vetted nannies with emotional intelligence
  • Secure app updates to keep families connected

Because in the early years, the right care makes all the difference.

👉 [Book a call with Cleo Nanny Co today] to find a nanny who will nurture your baby or toddler’s development and bring peace of mind to your family.