Many of us will no doubt be looking forward to a well earned summer holiday. For a lot of us it is the only chance we really get in the year to spend quality time with our families.

While some families take their nanny away with them, it is not something that most usually consider.

However, there is no doubt that this year that situation is changing as nanny agencies report more demand from families wanting to take nanny on holiday with them.

There is no question that the dreadful story of Madeleine McCann is still resonating and has caused a number of couples to give greater consideration to what happens to their children when bedtime comes around.

Nannies become an incredibly important part of our families so taking them on holiday is seen by mothers and fathers as a natural extension of home life.

Another reason more parents are taking their nanny away with them is the need to ring fence some quality time for themselves, in the safe knowledge that their children are being well looked after.

It is probably the only chance in the year that many parents get to enjoy dinner and a good conversation for a whole week or more. Parents more than anyone need the opportunity to recharge their batteries! Happy holidays.