Nanny, Ayah, or Full-Time Help? How to Decide What You Actually Need
A calm framework for new parents deciding between a trained nanny, a family ayah, and a full-time domestic worker.
For new parents, the choice between a trained nanny, a traditional ayah, and general full-time help is one of the earliest — and most emotional — decisions. Here is how we think about it.
What each role actually means
A trained nanny (often from Kerala or the North-East) has some formal childcare training, will lead the child's day, and expects to be treated as a specialist. An ayah, in the traditional sense, is closer to a family member — usually older, deeply experienced, less formal. Full-time general help is a generalist who will help with the baby among other tasks.
Cost, honestly
In metros, a trained live-in nanny costs ₹28,000–₹45,000 a month. An ayah, ₹18,000– ₹28,000. General full-time help, ₹15,000–₹22,000. The right choice depends less on budget and more on how much of the child's day you want to be present for.
A decision framework
If both parents work full corporate hours and travel — a trained nanny. If one parent is home most days and wants a warm second pair of hands — an ayah. If the baby is older, on solids, and mostly needs safe supervision — general help is often plenty.
