A Letter From the Heart of A Career Nanny: The Importance of Community and Ten Key Lessons She Has Learned Along The Way.

 As we celebrate National Nanny Recognition Month at Lone Star Nannies, we’re honored to highlight a nanny’s perspective on how to best support the incredible caregivers who shape children’s lives every day.

In this blog, career nanny Claire Masters shares her journey of building a nanny community and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.

Claire Master’s Bio

Hi everyone! My name is Claire, and I’m a career Nanny and House Manager. Childcare has been at the heart of my entire career. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: babysitter, daycare temp worker, assistant preschool teacher, mother’s morning out teacher, supervisor at a children’s shelter for abused and neglected children, and now a full-time nanny and house manager.
I live in Dallas, Texas with my husband and our rescue pup, Athena. In the Dallas–Fort Worth area, I started a local support group for nannies and caregivers where we share resources, host events, and support one another in this unique profession. I also run Instagram and TikTok accounts where I post about industry standards, professional tips, fun activities for kids, local spots to explore, and the events and trainings I host. My passion is advocating for both families and caregivers—ensuring families have the best possible experience with the professionals they hire while empowering nannies to grow, connect, and become the best versions of themselves.

The Importance of Having A Community

When I first became a nanny, I had no idea how isolating it could be. There was no guidebook, no clear path, and no one to teach me the ins and outs of the job. Most days, I felt like I was figuring it all out on my own. The only thing I knew for sure was that I had a deep love for children and a passion for helping them grow and thrive.

Then I landed a position in a neighborhood full of kids, and everything changed. I met several nannies and au pairs, and we began planning playdates so our kids could enjoy time together while we connected as caregivers. Suddenly, I had people to talk to—friends who understood the challenges, celebrated the wins, and shared ideas to help us all succeed. We even spent time together outside of work, and for the first time, I experienced what it felt like to have a true community in this profession.

That sense of belonging changed me. It didn’t just support me as a caregiver; it gave the children I cared for a built-in community of friends too. From then on, no matter where I worked, I sought out other caregivers to connect with and support.

When I moved to Dallas, I noticed a heartbreaking pattern: caregivers here didn’t seem to have the same kind of support. Many didn’t know about industry standards, fair pay, or benefits—and there wasn’t a strong network to lean on. I couldn’t stop thinking about the difference community had made in my life, so I decided to create that space for others.

That’s how DFW Nanny and Family Support was born. I started with a Facebook group open to nannies, au pairs, teachers, and caregivers across the Dallas–Fort Worth area. From there, we grew into hosting monthly meetups, offering trainings for professional development, and creating public pages on Instagram and TikTok to share fun kid-friendly spots and spread awareness about nanny rights and standards.

At the heart of it all, my mission has never changed: no nanny should ever feel alone. Every caregiver deserves community, encouragement, and a place to belong. My door—and my heart—will always be open to them.

Ten Lessons I’ve Learned As A Career Nanny

1. The Small Moments Matter Most

Some of my most meaningful memories as a nanny have come from the smallest moments—watching a child finally master potty training or chasing the family dog around the backyard while we all tried, unsuccessfully, to give it a bath in our swimsuits. The dog rolling in the mud made the task impossible but left us laughing the whole time.

2. Being There Through Life’s Transitions

As nannies, we often join families during major life transitions. Our job takes place in the heart of their homes, and we witness their struggles and celebrations firsthand. This unique role gives us the opportunity to offer love, support, and stability when families need it most. It’s one of the most meaningful ways to give back and truly make a difference.

3. Pushing Creative Limits

You’ll be challenged to push beyond your creative limits. Keeping children engaged requires fresh, innovative ideas, but it also teaches you about yourself—how you communicate, how you adapt, and how to meet each child’s unique learning style. Along the way, you grow right alongside them.

4. Being the Steady Presence

Sometimes, you’re the shield—the steady presence when parents can’t be there. It’s an honorable responsibility to guide children through life’s big and small questions in ways that respect their age and growing minds.

5. Finding Joy Despite Challenges

There will be moments you feel burnt out or wonder if you’ve chosen the right career. Yet on a sunny day at the pool or running through the park with giggling kids, you’ll realize you wouldn’t trade this work for anything in the world.

6. Letting Go of Perfection

Perfection will never be the goal—nor should it be. When I first started, I was terrified to speak to parents and held myself to an impossible standard. I’ve learned that chasing perfection only leads to frustration. Mindfulness, presence, and grace for yourself will take you much further.

7. Leaving a Lasting Impact

Your impact will last a lifetime. Some children may not remember your face or every activity you planned, but the kindness, patience, and warmth you show them plant seeds that grow long after you’re gone.

8. Learning from the Children

This work will push you further than you ever thought you could go. Children are our greatest teachers, and they’ll challenge you in ways that shape you into a stronger, more empathetic adult.

9. Preventing Burnout

Yes, burnout will happen, and that’s okay. Protect your energy by spacing out PTO throughout the year, taking short breaks during the day when kids are resting, and setting healthy boundaries. Don’t take on extra tasks without scheduling time to recharge afterward. Self-care isn’t optional; it’s essential.

10. The Power of Community

Community is everything. Some of the most incredible people I’ve met have been fellow nannies who’ve walked beside me through both work and life. If there isn’t a support network in your area, start one. Nannies thrive when we support each other.

One Final Reminder

This is one of the most incredible professions out there. You have the gift of shaping the next generation—use it to change the world, one child at a time.

If we’ve learned one thing from our conversation with Claire, it is that all caregivers, whether nannies or parents, have a whole lot in common. We all need a village that we can rely on for support, and encouragement, and most importantly to help us raise the next generation. We are so grateful for all of the families who have welcomed our team to be a part of your village and support system. Read more about our story here. 

With care, 

Lone Star Nannies