How to Become a Nanny

If you love children, have patience, lots of energy, and are creative and resourceful, then you might be thinking about becoming a nanny. There are steps that one needs to follow to ensure that they can practice as a nanny with all of the proper certifications and training necessary to perform the job.

A nanny is more than a babysitter. He or she provides one on one care to children, and is expected to teach and guide them, as well as care for their basic needs. The work is physically and emotionally exhausting, and the pay is generally low, but for those who love children it can be extremely rewarding. Working as a nanny is challenging, but can be very fulfilling. Decide if you are a good fit for the profession, take courses in CPR and first aid, and prepare a resume which highlights any special qualifications.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm Following these steps ought to get you on a great start to starting a fulfilling career as a nanny! Read on to learn how to become a nanny.

Although a nanny works independently, he or she is responsible for implementing the parents' goals and objectives for the children.http://www.enannysource.com/articles/becoming-nanny.aspx Becoming a Nanny This means that a nanny must be able to put their personal opinions aside in order to fit in with the family.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm Some other things to consider about employment as a nanny include that:

1. There are both full-time and part-time positions available.http://www.enannysource.com/articles/becoming-nanny.aspx
2. Some nanny positions are live-in, where room and board are included in payment.http://www.enannysource.com/articles/becoming-nanny.aspx These jobs generally pay less than live out positions.
3. Full-time nannies may work up to 60 hours a week.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm
4. Nannies should be both patient and prepared to spend 8-10 hours at stretch with a small child, with no adult companionship.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm
5. The job requires an individual who is flexible and adaptable, and able to structure the day on her own.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm
6. Working with children requires consistently high energy.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm
7. Although nannies are not housekeepers, their jobs will typically entail picking up after the children, preparing meals, and doing the children's laundry.http://www.nannynetwork.com/library/NannyLib/nanfaq.cfm

Although states and local governments regulate child care providers who provide care to children in their own homes, nannies who are employed by private individuals to care for children in the employer's homes are generally not required to have official licenses.http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos170.htm#training

1. Federal law imposes some training requirements for nannies who are not official U.S. citizens or permanent residents.http://www.aupairinamerica.com/aupairs/orientation.asp
2. Most employers will require a nanny to have a valid driver's license with a good driving record. Some will require a background check.http://www.employerschoiceonline.com/background-screening/nanny.html
3. Employers of domestic workers are required to withhold taxes and to pay employment taxes on behalf of their employees.

• Although formal education is not generally required to become a nanny, many employers prefer nannies who have training in:

1. CPR
2. First aid
3. Early childhood educationhttp://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos170.htm#training

Specialized skills, such as lifeguard certification or proficiency in a musical instrument or a foreign language, may also make you more attractive to employers.

• Finding a position as a nanny can be done through personal contacts, by answering an ad, or with the help of a third-party staffing agency.

1. Prepare a resume, focusing on the education and experience you have which relates to the care of children.http://www.cvtips.com/sample_resume/nanny.html
2. Assemble recommendations from individuals who can attest to your character and childcare skills.
3. Tell friends and family that you are looking for a position, and ask for referrals.
4. Be cautious when answering ads from impersonal sources, such as the newspaper or Craigslist.
   1. You'll be working in the employer's home, so you'll want to investigate them carefully.
   2. Ask the family for references, and check them out-- just like they should be checking out your background.
5. Consider registering with a staffing agency. Reputable agencies are paid by the employer, so there should be no upfront fee for you to pay.http://www.nannynetwork.com/Library/NannyLib/FindNannyJob.cfm