With the vast array of childcare options available, it’s really easy to get confused about what type of childcare would be perfect for your kids. Do you need a nanny or a babysitter? And what’s the difference?
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Schedule and exclusivity
A nanny always works full-time or part-time with one family exclusively. Typically a full-time nanny will live in your home, but this is not always the case. On the other hand, a babysitter helps a family with childcare on an ad hoc basis, during date-nights or weekends. Plus, a babysitter usually works with multiple families. A part-time nanny is a combination of the two aforementioned options, cares for kids a few hours a week and can provide the best of both worlds.
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Education and training
Well, in today’s world, knowing how to change a diaper and push a stroller isn’t enough! Being a great nanny or babysitter means knowing what to do when an emergency arises. That’s why most professional caregivers take classes on children’s first aid and CPR. Professional nannies may also hold a degree in early childhood education or another related field. In any case, we constantly and thoroughly support the education of our members. That’s why we often hold seminars and workshops that strengthen their skills and talents.
*note: If you’re looking for a caregiver with a degree, it’s good to know that verified members have been interviewed by a Nannuka representative and have had their official documents checked for their validity so that you can focus on other things than paperwork!
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Experience and duties
Nannies are just glorified babysitters, right? Wrong! In general, a nanny has more experience than a babysitter, as the babysitter role is considered more entry-level. Some etymologists believe that the word “babysit” comes from the fact that mother hens and other animals “sit” on their eggs to ensure their safety. And that’s a babysitter’s job: to keep the kids safe until their parents come home. However, there are babysitters who may have been babysitting for several years; as a result, they’re fully experienced. On the other hand, nannies are generally responsible for more things, e.g. transportation and meals, potty and sleep training, etc. A nanny might also be expected to do some forms of housework.
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Payment and benefits
Babysitters are paid by the hour – and that’s all. A nanny is considered a full-time employee, and as such, it is usually expected that she will be compensated for health care and vacation benefits. Plus, the hourly rate of a nanny is usually a bit higher than the rate of a babysitter.
So if you’re looking for someone to keep your kids happy and safe on a Saturday night, a babysitter is a fantastic choice. If you’re looking for someone to spend 8 to 10 hours a day / 5 to 6 days a week with your children, what you need is a good nanny. All in all, it’s not about babysitters VS nannies. It’s about matching what your kids need with the type of caregiver that can best provide it. There is no one-size-fits-all model when it comes to childcare. What’s best for your family depends on how often you are away from home and how often you need a great professional on your “parenting team”.
But whether you can spend a little or a lot, whether you need full-time care or just a couple of hours of help, there is certainly a Nannuka member who can meet your needs!