Ah, the holidays. Shopping, entertaining, traveling and, you guessed it, gift-giving. When it comes time to think about sharing a little something extra with sitters, nannies and other caregivers, that’s when some confusion sets in. “How much should I tip my sitter or nanny at the end of the year” is a common question, but the answer isn’t cut and dried. There’s definitely no specific number, percentage or one-size-fits-all sum, but there are a few rules of thumb that you can rely on. Our guide helps break it down so you can skip the guilt or guess work that often goes hand in hand with holiday tipping and ensure your decisions are right on the money. (Get it?)
Does Holiday Tipping Matter?
100%. Caregiving for children is hard, personal work that makes a big difference in your life. Sitters and nannies often provide the flexibility, stability and emotional labor that’s impossible to quantify, so holiday tipping is an easy way to share your thanks in a season that’s all about gratitude. It’s a way to acknowledge all the days sitters have gone above and beyond for you while making your kiddos feel safe and supported. While holiday tipping isn’t required, it IS appreciated and it’s likely to go a long way in making your caregiver feel valued.
How Much Should I Tip?
If you use a sitter once in a while—date nights, weekend errands, occasional backup care—a thoughtful holiday gesture goes a long way. Here are a few guidelines to consider:
Who: Occasional babysitters and Mother’s Helpers
How much? 1 to 2 times the amount of their last job for you as well as a small gift from the kids (think a handmade card or craft or a $10 gift card to their favorite coffee spot).
Who: Regular Babysitters/Weekly Sitters
How much? For sitters who come weekly or several times a month, tipping norms are higher since the relationship is stronger. Consider cash or a gift card in the amount of 1 week’s pay or a cash bonus and a small gift. If your sitter has taken on new responsibilities this year (like carpool or homework help) lean toward the range’s higher.
Who: Holiday Sitters (Parties, Events, New Year’s Eve)
How much? Babysitting on major holidays is high demand and high effort. It’s nice to add a little something extra to show your appreciation. It’s customary to add an extra 10 to 20% on top of the hourly rate
Who: Full-time Nannies
How much? From one week to one month’s pay based on tenure. A nanny (defined as a full-time caregiver who works for your family more than 20 hours per week) is a special caregiver who knows your children almost as well as you do. If she’s been doing a great job for you all year, it’s appropriate to give her one week’s pay. Additional gifts (such as homemade cards and cookies from your kids, or a gift certificate to her favorite store) are thoughtful and welcome, but the cash bonus is key. Failing to give your nanny a bonus might make her feel unappreciated and even tempted to look for another job. Some families choose to give long-term nannies who are very close to their children more than one week’s pay, but one week is the norm.
Who: Au Pairs
How much: One week’s pay.
An au pair (a live-in caregiver from a foreign country who works through an au pair program) has duties very similar to a nanny. And just like a nanny, one week’s pay is an appropriate bonus. A homemade gift or card from the kids is also appreciated.
Who: Tutors or Hybrid Tutor/Sitter Roles
How much? For tutors (especially regular ones) a good rule of thumb is one session’s fee or $20–$50, depending on frequency.
Who: Specialized Caregivers (Special Needs, Infant Sleep, Behavioral Support)
How much? These roles involve additional training or emotional labor, and holiday bonuses often reflect that. Consider a tip on higher end of the typical range as well as a more personalized card or gift acknowledging their deeper impact
What If You Work With Multiple Sitters?
Many families work with multiple sitters. Tipping doesn’t need to be equal, just thoughtful. One approach:
- Primary sitter: Larger gift or cash bonus
- Secondary sitter: $15–$30 gift card
- Occasional sitter: Handwritten note + small treat or $10–$20 gesture
Whatever you decide, aim for consistency from year to year. Caregivers notice thoughtful patterns.
What About Other People Who Help You Year-Round?
Beyond child caregivers, there are other people in your life who you might like to consider during the holiday season. Here are a few guidelines and suggestions.
| Caregiver type | Suggested holiday tip amount |
| Dog walker/pet sitter | $50-$200 in cash or gift card, depending on frequency |
| House cleaner | $20-Up to the cost of one visit, depending on frequency |
| Housekeeper/Manager | An extra 20-80% of weekly pay, depending on duration of relationship |
| Mail carrier | Non-cash gift under $20 and card |
| Senior care aide | Up to 1 week’s pay or small gift |
| Teacher | $25 gift card and/or small gift and card from your kids |
| Teacher’s Aide / Assistant | Small gift and card from your kids |
| Tutor | Cost of 1 session and small gift from your child, depending on frequency |
What about when budgets are tight?
It’s important to note that not every family can afford these recommended ranges — and that’s okay. Being thoughtful and showing gratitude counts as much as dollar amounts do. You can give a smaller cash bonus along with a personal gift (like a pair of fuzzy socks or gloves) as well as a card that acknowledges specific moments or memories. Even if you can’t give a gift, making or writing a card makes a difference. Don’t skip the chance to show a gesture of thanks.
What Should You Say When Giving a Tip?
Avoid the awkward envelope exchange and try one of these short scripts instead.
For an occasional babysitter:
“Thank you so much for being someone we trust with our kids. We appreciate you so much.”
For a regular sitter:
“We’re so grateful for all the ways you’ve supported our family this year. Thank you for everything you do.”
For a nanny:
“We truly couldn’t have made it through this year without your care, patience, and love. This is just a small way of showing our appreciation.”
How About a Few Gift Ideas Caregivers Actually Appreciate?
Yes, cash is always appreciated, but gifts are a nice complement or stand-alone gesture when budgets are limited.
A few ideas:
- Gift cards (Visa, Mastercard or Amex)
- Cozy winter items (socks, scarf, heated mug)
- Skincare sets
- High-quality notebook or planner
- Coffee shop or bakery gift cards
- Spa or manicure gift certificates
- Restaurant gift cards
- Movie theater passes
Gifts Made by the Kids :
- Handmade ornaments
- Kid-designed thank-you cards
- Framed child artwork
- Cookie boxes or treats baked together
Try to Avoid:
- Clothing unless you know the caregiver well and are sure of size, fit and style preferences
- Personal gifts (perfume, jewelry)
- “Gag gifts” or anything that trivializes the caregiver’s work
Final Thoughts
If you have a case of sticker shock after reading these guidelines, you’re not alone. A recent survey found that 47% of people plan to tip their children’s caregivers in 2025, down from 55% in 2024 (almost a 15% decrease). But try to think big picture: Holiday tipping is about more than just money. It’s about acknowledgement and gratitude (a big theme this season!) Taking the opportunity to say thank you will strengthen your relationship and increase trust heading into the new year.
