In the childcare industry there are so many different titles and forms of service. There is a daycare center, in-home daycare, au pair, nanny, babysitter, governess, household manager, manny, and NCS (Newborn Care Specialist). With all these different options it can be confusing as a first time parent or a parent of many to know what the best childcare option is for your needs. For the everyday middle class families looking for childcare the most common option is usually daycare or in-home child care centers but there are so many other options out there. We want to help you understand the differences between a few of the most common childcare titles. By the end of this blog you should be able to make a more informed decision when choosing the childcare option for your family.
What is a daycare center?
A daycare center is an affordable and very popular option for many families. Daycare is either a private or public facility that provides childcare to larger quantities of children. They usually offer a structured curriculum and have classes with 6 to 20 children each. Daycare centers are often accredited and affiliated with some form of government regulation. Daycare hours are typically 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Many families find daycare to be a more cost effective route to childcare, as costs usually range between $500 per month to $2,000 per month. Of course these rates vary depending on the age of the child and your geographical location.
What is a babysitter?
A babysitter is one of the most common terms used when people refer to in-home childcare. A babysitter is a caregiver that comes to a family’s home on an occasional or as needed basis. Babysitters do not need to have extensive experience and knowledge. A babysitter can be as young as 14 years old, sometimes even younger. They are usually responsible for basic child care tasks such as feeding the children, changing diapers, and playing with the children. Hiring a babysitter is a very convenient option for parents that need occasional help, date nights, or one-time childcare.
What is a nanny?
A nanny is typically an individual that comes to the family's home to provide child care services on a regular schedule. A nanny is also considered by law to be a domestic worker employed directly by the family. It is typical for a nanny to develop a close relationship with both the children and parents they work for. A nanny's employment with a family can be as little as 6-months to more than 18-years, depending on varying factors. In addition, a nanny can either live-in the family’s home or live-out and commute to work. As a live-in nanny a family provides room and board to the nanny. Some families like the live-in option because it allows them to be a little more flexible with schedules and the nanny does not have the risk of commuting to and from work.
A nanny is much more than just an individual that plays with your child. Nannies are equipped to handle all things related to your child, such as, basic lesson planning, implementing daily routines, potty training, transporting to and from school/activities, helping with homework, cooking meals for the children, maintaining child related chores, and much more. A professional nanny will fully invest into the well-being of your child(ren).
Though there is no government regulated training or education for a nanny. Many nannies do participate in earning some form of higher education. As well as, critical training in CPR/First Aid and other child development certificates. Because of the private and customizable nature of employing a nanny the cost associated with this role is significantly higher than daycare, typically range between $20k to $50k per year. Nanny compensation rates vary depending on geographical location, certification, nanny experience, and other factors.
What is a newborn care specialist?
A Newborn Care Specialist better known as, NCS is an individual that cares for newborns and infants from birth to about 6-months-old. This form of care usually takes place overnight or on a 24/7 schedule. For new parents an NCS is a great resource of education and support. An NCS will often work independently of the parents when working overnight. Or in partnership with the parents when on a 24/7 schedule, guiding parents in their new parental role. Through continued education, certification, and training, an NCS will be familiar with all of the “normal” appearances and behaviors of a newborn. They can help families determine when something is outside of that range of normal in order for parents to have peace of mind that their newborn is developing appropriately. In addition, an NCS often has extensive knowledge in caring for multiples or premature infants, and are well versed in establishing healthy eating and sleeping habits to set the optimal stage for positive sleep conditioning.
Typically the goal of an overnight NCS is to establish healthy sleep patterns which will allow the infant to sleep through the night at an appropriate age. An NCS is also well versed in supporting family values and understands the importance of a child having healthy, educated, and empowered parents. Most NCS will have basic knowledge of breastfeeding and will provide support to a breastfeeding/chest feeding parent. As well as, providing support if the parents choose bottle feeding options. Due to the specific nature, knowledge, and training required to be an NCS, their services on average cost between $25 to $45 per hour.
We hope that you have found some value and new found knowledge in this blog.
