Meet Anika and Turjo, a young corporate couple living in Uttara. Anika works as a marketing manager at a multinational company in Karwan Bazar, while Turjo is a software engineer at a leading tech firm in Motijheel.
Their days start early, battling Dhaka’s notorious traffic jams to reach their offices on time. When they return home, it’s often late, leaving little energy or time to spend with their 3-year-old daughter, Ayesha.
Like many parents in Dhaka, Anika and Turjo face a tough choice: how to balance their careers with giving Ayesha the care and attention she needs. With no extended family nearby to help, they turned to professional nanny services. For families like theirs, nanny services aren’t just a luxury—they’re a necessity!
The Growing Need for Nanny Services in Dhaka
Dhaka’s fast-paced urban lifestyle and changing family structures have increased the demand for professional childcare. According to the 2022 Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES), the average household size in rural areas has decreased from 4.53 in 2010 to 4.30 in 2022, reflecting a broader trend toward smaller nuclear families. This shift has created a pressing need for reliable, high-quality nanny services, especially in urban centers like Dhaka.
For working mothers like Anika, the challenge is even more significant. On average, women in Bangladesh spend 5.16 hours per day on childcare and household chores, leaving little time for professional or personal pursuits. Access to quality nanny services isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity for many families.
Childcare and Women’s Workforce Participation
Childcare plays a critical role in enabling women to participate in the workforce. According to The Bangladesh Statistical Yearbook 2022, the female labor force participation rate in Bangladesh reached 42.68% in 2022, up from 36% in 2017. However, the rate is lower in urban areas like Dhaka, at 30.8%. One of the biggest barriers? Lack of access to reliable childcare.
In a recent survey, 54% of women reported childcare as a significant obstacle to their employment. Additionally, 18% of women had to quit their jobs due to a lack of suitable caregiving options
For families like Anika and Turjo, nanny services are essential to keep parents, especially mothers, in the workforce.
Types of Nanny Services Available
Working parents in Dhaka have several options when it comes to nanny services. Here’s a breakdown for clarification:
- Full-Time Nannies: These nannies provide consistent, long-term care, often aligning with your work schedule. Monthly packages typically start at ৳ 18,000 for 8-hour shifts and up to ৳ 24,000 for 12-hour shifts.
- Part-Time Nannies: Ideal for parents who need help for a few hours a day or specific days of the week. Pricing for part-time nannies is customized based on your specific requirements and the level of care needed.
- Live-In Nannies: These nannies live in your home, offering round-the-clock care. This option suits parents with irregular schedules or those who travel frequently. Monthly costs start at ৳ 30,000, including accommodation.
- Babysitters: Best for short-term or occasional needs, like a marriage reception or emergencies. Babysitters are hired on an as-needed basis, and their fees are customized specifically to the duration and nature of the job.
For families seeking a trusted provider, AYAT Care offers a range of personalized nanny services to meet busy parents’ diverse needs. Their nannies are trained and certified, with expertise in early childhood development, emotional support, and fostering social skills.
What to Look for in a Nanny
When hiring a nanny, qualifications and experience matter, but so do personal qualities. Look for someone who is:
- Patient and Empathetic: A good nanny should genuinely care for children and handle their needs with patience.
- Reliable and Trustworthy: Your nanny will spend a lot of time with your child, so trust is essential.
- Trained in First Aid: Accidents happen, and a nanny with first aid and CPR training can provide peace of mind.
- Compatible with Your Family: A nanny who shares your values and parenting style will make the transition smoother for your child.
Essential Safety Tips for Parents
Your child’s safety is the top priority. Here are some tips to ensure a secure environment:
- Check and Keep a Copy of the Nanny’s NID: Always verify the nanny’s identity by checking their National Identity Card (NID) and keeping a copy for your records. This adds an extra layer of security and accountability.
- Install Security Cameras: Place cameras in common areas (with the nanny’s knowledge) to monitor interactions.
- Set Clear Rules: Discuss your expectations for discipline, screen time, and daily routines.
- Stay Involved: Regularly check in with your child and the nanny to address any concerns.
- Use Technology: Apps like shared calendars or GPS tracking (for older children) can help you stay connected.
Final Thoughts
For families like Anika and Turjo’s, nanny services are more than just a convenience—they’re a lifeline. With Dhaka’s traffic jams and demanding work schedules, professional childcare allows parents to focus on their careers while ensuring their children receive the care they deserve.
The demand for nanny services will keep growing, and Dhaka’s working parents must choose a provider that prioritizes safety, quality, and trust. Whether you need full-time, part-time, or live-in care, investing in quality nanny services today is about securing a better future for your family.
