Childminder or nanny? When which care model fits

Childcare is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Every child, every family, every everyday life is different. That is why Nidino offers two models of the highest quality: The mini daycare center with childminder — or the Nanny at your home. Both paths have their strengths. But when does which model fits best?

Childminder = mini daycare center with heart

One childminder after children at home — in a family environment that offers closeness, structure and security. At Nidino, we talk about Mini daycare centers: small groups (max. 5 children), pedagogically trained supervisors, clear routines — but without mass operations or shift changes.

Children grow in a family-like atmosphere , learn as if you were a sibling, and develop emotional security through stable caregivers. For many children (and parents), this is an ideal introduction to the world outside of their own home.

Benefits at a glance:

• Familiar environment: Care in a small group in a comfortable and secure environment.
• Social contacts: Early support through daily exchange with other children.
• Flexible support: Bookable on individual days of the week or half day — tailored to individual needs.
• Reliable caregiver: Stable bond thanks to constantly supervising day families.
• Educational concept: Playful learning with a focus on language, movement and social development.
• Financial support: Subsidised places available (only for day families).
• cost savings: Up to 20% cheaper than classic KITA models.

“Children learn through relationships — and that is exactly what day families offer: reliable, loving bonds in real everyday life,” explains Sarah D'Aquino, co-founder and childcare expert at Nidino.

‍Nanny = Maximum flexibility for everyday family life

One Nanny looks after the children in the family home — usually exclusively and after individually agreed times. Especially in households with several children, this can be financially attractive — and worth its weight in gold from an organizational point of view.

If both parents work irregularly or frequently, a nanny is often the right choice. It brings peace to hectic routines — without morning stress.

Benefits at a glance:

• Individual care: Exclusive care in a familiar home — ideal for babies or children with special needs.
• No handovers: Local care saves delivery and retrieval routes — perfect for parents with tight schedules.
• Everyday support: Flexible help at home or during evening assignments — even when needed at short notice (e.g. in the evening or in case of illness).
• Relief for multiple children: Stress-free and efficient, particularly with larger family constellations.
• Cost savings for three or more children: Often cheaper than external care models for several children.

“The nanny solution is worthwhile when families need maximum relief — for example during long working days, babies with a sleep rhythm or several children in different age groups,” says Christian Meyer, co-founder at Nidino.

💡 Conclusion: Both are Nidino — and both have their place

Whether it's a day family or a nanny — the same standards apply at Nidino:

✔️ Pedagogically trained supervisors

✔️ Digital processes

✔️ Personal support from our team

✔️ Safety, reliability & heart

Subsidised places are only available for mini daycare centers. This makes them particularly attractive for families with smaller budgets — without sacrificing quality.

Are you unsure what suits you? We will advise you personally and find the best solution together.

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