There’s nothing quite like the experience of bringing your new bundle of joy home for the first time. And there’s certainly no preparation for the highs and lows that goes with it – endless family visits and sleepless nights and fatigued days. Hiring overnight childcare may help with the difficulties busy parents face, but do the benefits outweigh the costs?
Is overnight childcare right for you? We’ve put together a brief overview of newborn carers and how they can help you.
>> Looking for a babysitter or nanny? Find childcare in your area now.
What is Overnight Childcare?
Overnight childcare, or newborn specialist care, may be hired for several weeks following birth — sometimes longer. Working parents may need help only on weeknights; other parents for just two or three nights weekly to catch up on rest.
“Night nannies typically come into the home later in the evening and are on duty throughout the night in order to best assist the family,” says Becky Kavanagh, co-president of the International Nanny Association.
Do I Need Overnight Childcare?
If you are experiencing sleep deprivation or are struggling to cope with the exhaustion that accompanies the arrival of your newborn, a night nanny could help. This is especially true when the birth has been difficult, you are dealing with twins or multiples or there are other young children in the family.
What Does a Good Night Nanny Look Like?
While fees vary based upon experience and certification, any professional you hire to care for your newborn should have extensive experience with small babies other than their own, so as to expertly manage sleep training, scheduling, diaper rash, soothing and night time feedings. Some families will require additional support to handle colicky babies, reflux, circumcision care or other issues.
How Much Does Overnight Childcare Cost?
Rates of pay vary depending on where you live. Some night nannies become certified newborn care specialists and typically command higher fees. This is not unusual; the cost of hiring a night nanny can run into the thousands and is a luxury for many families.
Use the Care.com sitter rate calculator as a starting point.
How Does the Nanny-Parent Relationship Work?
The dynamic between parents and their night nanny is crucial, but so is the nanny’s enjoyment of working with infants. “Often, night nannies appreciate working with these very young infants on a one-to-one basis,” Kavanagh says. “There is also a lot of satisfaction in helping a family through these early days and seeing that they’ve had a positive impact on their lives by the time they are no longer needed.”
A night nanny may be a luxury for some families and a necessity for others, particularly those who have no close relatives nearby, or who have demanding, stressful jobs. Budgetary concerns are on everyone’s mind, but you may decide your family could benefit from hiring a night nanny.
Keep in mind, added rest at night will help you to give your best to your baby and your other responsibilities during the day. And it’s hard to put a price on that.
>> Looking for a babysitter or nanny? Find childcare in your area now.