Dora - a good nanny will organize educational activities and provide a good routine with variation and stimulation. And a good nanny will also do outings to parks/playdates etc so your child gets stimulation! A western nanny is VERY different to the many 'nannies' that are employed here. Where most of them are employed more for house keeping/cleaning and to keep an eye on the children. If you want someone educated and with experience or trained you will have to expect to pay more. And then at least your young child is in your home. But if you luck out and find a great nursery then well done. I personally think that 1 years old is young to spend a full day at nursery. I have worked as a nanny/governess for the past 12 years and think that when they are older a nursery is the perfect environment - but when they are small it is better for them to be home.