There are no new alerts.Check back later
Nationwide Placement

Newborn Care Specialist vs. Nanny: Understanding the Differences

When choosing the right caregiver for your new baby, two options come to mind: a Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) or a Nanny. While both can provide support and care for your baby, there are significant differences.
Olivia Quilty
By Olivia Quilty, NCS
Updated Jul 11, 2024 | 3 Minute Read

In This Article

Newborn Care Specialist (NCS)

A newborn care specialist is a highly trained and experienced caregiver who provides care for newborns and infants. including multiples and babies with special needs. They are experts in the needs of newborns, including feeding, sleep, and support. NCSs often work with families on a short-term basis, anywhere from a few weeks to months,  and help to establish a routine and support system for parents during the beginning stages of their infant.

Nanny

A nanny is a caregiver who provides in-home care for children. Nannies can be hired on a full-time or part-time basis. They may have a variety of responsibilities, including feeding, bathing, and playing with the children, as well as doing the child’s laundry and light housekeeping. Nannies work with families for an extended period, often several years, and are responsible for the overall care and well-being of the children in their care.

So, how do you choose the right caregiver for your family?

Consider Your Needs

The first step in choosing the right caregiver is to assess your family’s needs.

Are you looking for a short-term solution to help with the transition to parenthood, or are you in need of a long-term caregiver for your children? This decision will help determine whether an NCS or a nanny is the best fit for your family.

Consider Their Qualifications

Newborn care specialists have training and experience caring for newborns and infants, including multiples and babies with special needs. In contrast, nannies may have a wide range of qualifications, from extensive experience to no experience. When choosing a nanny, personality is equally as important as qualifications, experience, and training.

Consider Their Availability

Newborn care specialists often secure their schedules up to 6 months in advance of the birth, or at times in a hurried rush. They may have limited availability, while nannies are typically available for more extended periods. Consider your family’s needs and schedule at your earliest convenience to ensure availability.

Consider Your Budget

Finally, consider your budget when choosing a caregiver. Newborn care specialists typically charge more per hour than nannies. Still, their expertise and specialized training can make them a valuable investment in the care of your baby. On the other hand, nannies may have a more flexible rate and can have a different level of expertise in caring for infants, toddlers, and school-aged children.

Choosing the right caregiver for your family is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Whether you choose a newborn care specialist or a nanny, the most crucial factor is that the caregiver is qualified, experienced, and dedicated to providing the best care for your children. Take the time to consider your options and make the best decision for your family.

Connect with us today and let us match you with the ideal newborn care specialist or nanny for your home.

Share This

Tags

Next On Your Reading List

Newborn Care Tips for Keeping Your Relationship Healthy After Baby

Tips for Keeping Your Relationship Healthy After Baby

Becoming parents is a huge change. While your heart explodes with love for your new little bundle, parenthood also requires you to be flexible, adapt to new routines, and sacrifice certain things. Your relationship with your partner is also bound to change. It’s common to experience challenges as a couple

A darling newborn baby snuggles with a teddy bear

The Importance of Sleep Training for Newborns

Getting enough sleep is essential for a newborn’s health and development. Establishing a healthy sleep routine for their baby can be challenging for new parents. That’s where a newborn care specialist comes in.

A newborn care specialist cradles a baby in her legs

Newborn Care Specialist Interview

In the following conversation, we had the chance to sit down with one of our Newborn Care Specialists and discuss her history, skills, experience, and the challenges and rewards of being a caregiver.

Ready to Hire? Start Today.

Call us today at (212) 600-2085 or follow the link below to get started.

Hire a Newborn Care Specialist