🏕️ Summer Camp vs. Temporary Nanny: Pros & Cons for Parents

When school’s out for summer, many parents start weighing their childcare options — and two of the most common choices are summer camps and temporary nannies.

Each comes with its own strengths and limitations. The best option depends on your family’s schedule, your child’s personality, and how much flexibility you need during the holidays.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of summer camps vs. temporary nannies to help you decide what works best for your household.

🎨 Summer Camps

✅ Pros:

1. Social Interaction:
Camps provide children with opportunities to meet peers, build friendships, and develop social skills in a group setting.

2. Structured Activities:
Camps are designed around themes — from sports and science to arts and drama — keeping kids engaged with a full day of organized learning and fun.

3. Independence Building:
Children learn to navigate routines, follow group instructions, and problem-solve away from their home environment.

4. Affordability (for some camps):
Many day camps are less expensive than one-on-one childcare, especially if run by local councils or schools.

❌ Cons:

1. Less Flexibility:
Camps typically run set hours (e.g. 9am–3pm), which may not align with working parents’ schedules. Late pickups often incur fees.

2. Large Child-to-Staff Ratios:
Unlike 1-on-1 care, your child is one of many. That may mean less personalised attention — especially for younger or more sensitive children.

3. Travel & Logistics:
Parents are responsible for drop-offs, pickups, and packing daily supplies. This can be stressful if you have multiple children or work early/late hours.

4. Sick Days & Burnout:
If your child is unwell or overtired, you may still need backup childcare. Camps don’t always offer refunds or alternatives.

🧑‍🍼 Temporary Nanny

✅ Pros:

1. Personalised Attention:
A nanny works with your child (or children) in a home setting, tailoring care, routines, and activities to their age, needs, and personality.

2. Flexibility in Hours & Duties:
Need early starts, late finishes, part-time, or even weekend help? Nannies can adjust around your family’s specific summer schedule.

3. Home Comforts:
Children stay in their familiar environment — great for little ones, neurodivergent children, or those with separation anxiety.

4. Support During Travel or Holidays:
Many temporary nannies are open to travel roles, helping families maintain routines on the go.

5. Less Parental Admin:
No packing lunches, commuting to camp, or coordinating with multiple staff members. The nanny handles day-to-day logistics in your home.

❌ Cons:

1. Higher Cost:
One-on-one care is usually more expensive than group options, especially for full-day or full-time coverage.

2. Less Peer Socialisation:
Unless arranged through playdates or outings, your child may not interact with many other children throughout the day.

3. Availability:
Experienced, trusted temporary nannies get booked quickly in the summer — it’s important to plan ahead to secure the right match.

4. Home Dynamics:
Some parents may find it challenging to work from home while a nanny is there, or may need to prepare their space (e.g. activities, meals, toys).

🧩 A Hybrid Option

Some families find that a mix of both works well:

• Nanny support in early mornings or evenings

• Camps during the day for variety and social interaction

This setup balances structure, socialisation, and home-based care — especially helpful for working parents with unpredictable hours.

🛠️ How to Decide What’s Right for Your Child

Still unsure which route to take? Here are a few things to consider as you make your decision:

🌟 Your Child’s Personality

• Shy or introverted? A nanny might be the better fit, giving your child space to build confidence in a low-pressure setting.

• Energised by groups? A summer camp may provide the stimulation and variety they thrive on.

👶 Your Child’s Age

• Under 5s often do best with home-based care due to the need for naps, flexible routines, and consistent attention.

• Ages 6+ may enjoy the independence and group dynamics offered by camps.

🧳 Your Summer Plans

• Travelling a lot? A temporary nanny who can come with you or offer flexible cover may work better than committing to a camp schedule.

• Staying local? Camps may provide a great way to break up the long holiday weeks with social and creative experiences.

🗓️ Your Workload

• High-demand job? A nanny may give you the peace of mind and coverage needed to focus.

• Lighter summer schedule? You may be able to mix and match both options.

💭 Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and that’s okay. What matters most is choosing what feels right for your child and your family’s rhythm. The good news? Whether you opt for a summer camp, a temporary nanny, or a blend of both, you’re creating a summer full of connection, care, and adventure.