Being a nanny isn’t a simple job watching kids — it’s a professional career that should be taken seriously. Nannies are asked to handle everything from day-to-day responsibilities to emergency situations. One of the best ways to be prepared is to further your education and training. “One of the most challenging parts of a nanny’s job is working in a diverse environment,” says Toni C. Herman, program director at the American Nanny and Parenting Institute.
“Education by far sets a nanny apart from even those who have worked many years in the field,” shares Marta Perrone, an acclaimed contributor to “The Professional Housekeeper.” A prospective employer is always more impressed with an experienced and educated nanny. And getting as much training under your belt as possible will give you the confidence needed to conquer the battles every family household wins on a daily basis.
So, where can you find training?
- Attend National Nanny Training Day
Spring may be the best time to look for training, as National Nanny Training Day is in April. Training events take place all around the country and it’s a great time to learn new skills and meet other nannies in your area.
- Invest in a College Degree
Many colleges and universities have undergraduate and graduate programs to prepare individuals for a career in child care. Look into programs in early childhood education, child development or assisting individuals with special needs.
- Locate a Nanny School
If you’re just starting out or want a more in-depth and rigorous training, there are several schools that focus on educating nannies and helping them update their skill sets. For example, look into the American Nanny and Parenting Institute, the Alexandria School, Northwest Nannies Institute or the English Nanny & Governess School. You can even head to England and attend famous schools like Norland College or Chiltern College.Make sure you investigate any schools before signing up, to confirm that they offer the type of education you’re looking for. Talk to current and former students and find out where and how graduates get jobs.
- Go to a Workshop
If you don’t have the time or funds for formal educational training, you may want to consider attending a few workshops to learn new skills. “A great way for a nanny to set herself apart from other nannies is to have a specialty area,” Herman says. “Training in specialty areas such as baby sign language, preemie care, infant massage and caring for multiples are perfect to put a nanny at the top of the list.Aside from training in first aid and CPR that every nanny should have, here are a few additional topics to consider:
- Sleep training
- Nutrition and fitness for children
- Lactation and breastfeeding
- Postnatal depression
- Infant/nanny postpartum care
- Caring for multiples
- Infant massage
- Career development — professionalism
- Dealing with toddler biting
- Potty training
- Special needs training
- Emergency preparedness
- Household management, housekeeping and laundry basics
- Basic cooking
Look for workshops on these topics in your area. Organizations such as local libraries, the Red Cross and parenting organizations offer them regularly.
If you’re serious about your job, and truly want to make a career out of child care, investing in education is a necessity. Herman sums it up, saying “there are so many wonderful opportunities for growth and development for nannies, since the world of early childhood care is a constantly changing environment.” Take advantage of all possible opportunities to set yourself apart from the competition and make it easier to find the right job for you.
