What Is a Split-Day Nanny Position?

What Is a Split-Day Nanny Position? (And How to Make It More Appealing to Top Candidates)

Hiring a nanny isn’t always a one-size-fits-all scenario. In fact, many families have unique schedules that call for equally unique solutions. One common example is a split-day nanny. If you’ve never heard the term before, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down:

What Is a Split-Day Nanny Position?

A split-day nanny (sometimes called a “split-shift nanny”) works two separate shifts within the same day, typically a few hours in the morning and a few more in the late afternoon or evening.

For example:

• Morning Shift: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (get the kids ready, prep breakfast, school drop-offs)
• Evening Shift: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (school pickups, homework help, dinner, bedtime routines)

That leaves a mid-day break when the kids are at school or napping, and parents are working or running errands.

It’s ideal for families who don’t need full-day coverage but still want consistent, professional care during the busiest parts of the day.

Why It’s a Harder Sell to Nannies

Here’s the truth: while split-day roles work beautifully for families, they can be a bit tricky for caregivers and staffing agencies. That long break in the middle can make it hard to work a second job, go to school, or even run errands efficiently. Commutes become doubled, and the workday stretches across more hours.

So how can you make a split-day position more attractive to top-tier candidates?

How to Make Split-Day Roles More Appealing

1. Offer Guaranteed Full-Time Pay

Even if the total daily hours don’t hit the 8-hour mark, guaranteeing a full-time salary makes the position more financially stable and competitive. You’re not just paying for hours; You’re paying for commitment and flexibility.

Pro-tip: At MoniCare, 32 hours is considered a full-time position, but the closer you get to 40 hours per week, the more attractive your position will be.

2. Provide On-Site Break Options
Have a guest room, quiet office, or comfy nook? Let your nanny stay during the break instead of commuting home. A mid-day pause with Wi-Fi, coffee, and a little peace can make the role much more attractive.

3. Consider Benefits
Paid time off, health insurance stipends, a gym membership, holiday bonuses—these go a long way in making a role stand out. A split-day position that includes benefits shows professionalism and long-term investment.

4. Add Variety and Engagement
If your nanny loves planning activities, organizing kids' closets, or prepping meals, offer optional tasks for the break window (with pay). Just be sure these add-ons feel like enrichment and not extra work.

5. Be Upfront and Flexible
Transparency about the schedule, expectations, and compensation is key. If you can offer flexibility (like an earlier start time one day a week or a condensed Friday), do it. Little tweaks show you’re thinking of your nanny’s needs, too.

At MoniCare, we understand that great care comes from great working conditions. A split-day schedule can be a dream setup when thoughtfully structured and fairly compensated.

Need help creating a position that works for everyone? We’re here to help you build the perfect fit. Get started now at www.monicare.com.