Do you ever wish for a Mary Poppins-esque magic bag of tricks? Even on the toughest day, your job as a nanny means you are expected to keep both kids and parents happy and your own life running smoothly. And that’s not easy.
Here are some places you can turn to for help and a little refresher on everything from nanny training to kid-friendly activities.
1. Professional nanny training opportunities
Being a nanny is like any other career — frequent training and education only improves your skills and the quality of care you provide. Look into training opportunities near you. InterNational Nanny Training Day (iNNTD) is an event that takes place in different cities around the world. Coordinated by Nannypalooza, it provides training and socializing opportunities for all nannies
Nanny organizations like the International Nanny Association (INA) also help nannies with all aspects of career development. You may also look for educational opportunities at accredited nanny schools, or check out workshops or nanny training courses at local colleges, adult education programs or workers’ organizations.
2. Apps to keep in touch
Keep parents updated with all the great things you’re doing with their kids — without texting them all day long or putting their kids on social media. Try the technology behind one of the many nanny apps out there. For nanny app ideas, see these 10 nanny apps to make work life easier.
3. Nanny playdates
Sometimes the best way to learn new ideas is to meet other nannies and break out of the familiar park and story hour routine. Kids have playdates, so why can’t nannies? Look for Facebook groups devoted to nannies in your area or online nanny forums that can direct you to local outings or dinners with other nannies. Find nanny get-togethers around the world through Meetup.com. Or start your own. Get the word out with other local nannies and schedule a time to meet once a week or once a month. You can chat about your jobs, share tips and advice or just relax with people who know what it’s like to chase toddlers for a living.
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4. Life-saving skills
Offering the gold standard of training classes, The American Red Cross helps you keep your lifesaving skills up-to-date. As a nanny, this training is an essential job skill because you never know when you might need to help someone. Sign up every year to refresh your first-aid, water safety and CPR knowledge and techniques. The training gives you and the family you work for peace of mind knowing that you know what to do in an emergency. Good first-aid and CPR training classes can also be found in local hospitals, colleges, libraries, public safety centers or even through a community education listing.
5. Nanny career sites
Nanny job sites like Care can help you find the nanny job you want in record time and walk you through all the professional steps. Post a professional profile, keep your eye on job opportunities, and you have a great chance at finding a job that is a perfect match. Browse the Articles and Guides for career advice, child care tips and even potty training strategies. Keep your profile current by updating it frequently and looking for job opportunities.
6. Kids activity ideas
Was your playdate canceled or did it suddenly start to rain? Whatever happened, you and your charges are now stuck with nothing to do. Check out TikTok, Pinterest or search Care’s Articles and Guides for some last-minute games, crafts and printables that will keep all of you having fun and doing something new. Introduce never-tried-before indoor games and outdoor games that are entertaining and will help everyone pass the time. These ideas are a nanny’s secret weapon!
