Need a Nanny in Bali? Here Are Safe & Trusted Tips to Help You Choose
Finding a reliable nanny in Bali—whether you’re a resident, expat, or visiting on vacation—is a crucial decision when it comes to your child’s care and well-being. Whether you need a nanny full-time, part-time, live-in, or just for a few hours while you enjoy the island, ensuring that you hire someone trustworthy, experienced, and compatible with your family is essential.
This guide outlines safe and trusted tips for finding a nanny in Bali, helping parents and guardians make the best possible choice.
Why Bali?
Bali is not only a top tourist destination, but it’s also a growing hub for digital nomads, expat families, and long-term residents. The need for professional child care has increased, and so has the availability of nanny services, both local and international. However, like anywhere in the world, hiring the right nanny requires careful consideration.
Types of Nanny Services Available in Bali
Before hiring, it’s important to understand the different types of nanny services in Bali:
1. Local Nannies
These are Balinese or Indonesian women with experience in child care, often hired by local families or expats. They may or may not speak fluent English, but many have worked with foreign families and are familiar with Western child care practices.
2. Live-in Nannies
Live-in nannies stay with your family full-time and usually manage a range of responsibilities, from feeding and bathing the child to light housework. This arrangement is common for families staying long-term.
3. Part-time or Daily Nannies
These nannies come in for a few hours a day. Ideal for vacationing families or part-time work, they offer flexibility and affordability.
4. Nanny Agencies
Several agencies in Bali specialize in vetting and connecting families with trained nannies. They often conduct background checks and provide replacements if needed.
Why You Need to Be Careful When Hiring a Nanny in Bali
Leaving your child in someone else’s care always carries a level of risk. In Bali, while many nannies are kind and experienced, not all are properly trained or vetted. Without proper hiring steps, you may face:
- Communication issues (language barriers)
- Inadequate experience or safety knowledge
- Mismatched expectations
- Unreliable attendance or commitment
That’s why following a trusted process is key.
Safe & Trusted Tips for Hiring a Nanny in Bali
Here are the most important steps to ensure you hire a nanny who is safe, experienced, and a good fit for your family:
1. Work With Reputable Nanny Agencies
Using a reputable nanny agency in Bali gives you access to professionals who have already been screened. These agencies often:
- Conduct interviews and background checks
- Verify previous work experience
- Ensure the nanny has basic first aid knowledge
- Offer replacements or emergency backup options
Examples of trusted agencies in Bali include:
- Bali Nanny Agency
- Balikidscare
- NannyBali
(Always cross-check agency reputations through online reviews and expat forums.)
2. Check References Thoroughly
Always ask for and contact at least two to three references. Ask the following:
- How long did she work with your family?
- What were her responsibilities?
- How did she handle emergencies or stress?
- Was she punctual and reliable?
- Why did she leave the job?
This gives you real-world feedback and reduces guesswork.
3. Conduct a Trial Period
Don’t commit to long-term arrangements immediately. Begin with a 1 to 2-week trial period to evaluate:
- Interaction with your child
- Time management and discipline style
- Communication with parents
- Hygiene, safety, and attentiveness
Observe how your child reacts to the nanny after each day—it’s often a helpful indicator.
4. Clarify Expectations from the Start
Many problems occur when parents and nannies are not on the same page. Be clear about:
- Working hours and days off
- Salary and payment method
- Duties (childcare only vs light housekeeping)
- Food and transport allowances
- Rules in the house (phone use, screen time, etc.)
Having a written agreement or contract in either English or Bahasa Indonesia (or both) is highly recommended.
5. Ensure Health & Safety Knowledge
Basic safety training is a must. Ideally, your nanny should:
- Know CPR and basic first aid
- Be familiar with child nutrition and allergy awareness
- Understand how to handle emergencies (burns, choking, falls)
- Be aware of hygiene standards, especially with infants
You can also provide safety guidelines and emergency contacts in writing.
6. Watch for Red Flags
During interviews or trials, look out for warning signs such as:
- Showing up late or canceling frequently
- Disinterest in engaging with your child
- Being glued to their phone
- Lying about work history
- Asking for money advances early on
If something feels off, trust your instincts. It’s better to wait than make a rushed decision.
7. Consider Language Compatibility
If your child does not speak Bahasa Indonesia, hiring a nanny who speaks at least conversational English is advisable. For infants and toddlers, communication is critical—even more so if you’re not around.
Some agencies offer bilingual nannies, but they may come at a higher rate. Decide based on your child’s needs.
8. Use Community Recommendations
Many expat families in Bali rely on word-of-mouth. Join Facebook groups, WhatsApp communities, or forums such as:
- Bali Expat Families
- Canggu Mums
- Ubud Community Group
These communities often have trusted recommendations and honest reviews.
9. Respect Local Culture and Employment Rights
When hiring a local nanny, remember to:
- Treat her fairly and respectfully
- Understand local salary standards and give reasonable days off
- Provide meals during long shifts
- Offer holiday bonuses (known as THR in Indonesia)
A respectful relationship often results in better long-term care for your child.
10. Have a Backup Plan
Even with the best nanny, things can change. She might fall ill, relocate, or need to leave unexpectedly. Always have a backup nanny contact or agency on hand, especially if you rely on full-time help.
Average Cost of a Nanny in Bali
Prices can vary widely depending on experience, hours, and duties. Here’s a general guide:
- Full-time live-out nanny: IDR 3–6 million/month
- Live-in nanny: IDR 4.5–7 million/month
- Part-time daily nanny: IDR 100,000–250,000/day
- Hourly rates (e.g., babysitting while on vacation): IDR 50,000–100,000/hour
Always clarify if food, transport, and accommodation (for live-in) are included.
Final Thoughts
Finding a nanny in Bali doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following a clear process, using trusted agencies, and being thorough with interviews and trials, you can find a nanny who will not only care for your child, but become a valued part of your family’s Bali journey.
Whether you’re here for a few weeks or several years, a safe and trusted nanny can give you peace of mind—and help your child thrive in paradise.