Parents only want the best for their children, especially when finding someone to care for them. Finding the proper care for your child can be difficult and overwhelming when you consider the many options available. When private childcare comes into the equation we often hear, what is the difference between a babysitter and a nanny? Both roles are essential and beneficial, but what does each roll consist of?
Who is a nanny?
A nanny is a person who takes care of your child on a set weekly schedule. They are consistent, reliable, and someone your family can depend on. A nanny is an experienced caregiver that has a prime focus on your child’s development.They can be considered an employee of the house as besides looking after the children, their duties include preparing children meals, getting the children dressed, cleaning children’s areas of the house, and children’s laundry. At times, nannies are also expected to pick up and drop off the children from school. They play a vital role in the child’s life.
Moreover, nannies are well-educated, trained about children of different age ranges, their eating habits, and daily routines, and will have usually attended a first aid course to ensure they are able to provide care in the event of an emergency. Nannies usually work on a salary basis or fixed monthly income and can live-in or live-out depending on the family needs. This makes them incredibly reliable and flexible in their schedules.
Who is a babysitter?
A babysitter is someone who is usually paid on an hourly basis to take care of someone else’s children. They only work for a few hours at a time and most likely work for multiple families. Unlike nannies, babysitters may or may not have training about child development and they aren’t expected to have as much responsibility around the house. Their sole duty is to come to the house and play with the children for a few hours when needed.
Babysitter’s may not always be available at the time you need them, because of this, some families have multiple babysitters on call whenever they need someone to take care of their little ones. Whereas nannies are more flexible due to their longer working hours.
Babysitter vs. Nanny
Overall your child’s needs come first when considering the best options for their care. You want someone that will keep your child happy, stimulated, and have their developmental needs catered for. Hiring a nanny means that your child will be getting their undivided attention. A nanny is also more flexible and will maintain your children’s household duties. A babysitter will just come and go, meaning a close bond will be hard to establish. Nannie’s are able to build healthy, long-lasting relationships and help guide your children to their best future.
