How Does A Professional Nanny Differ From A Babysitter
There is a tendency among many to confuse the terms nanny and babysitter. It is best in everyone’s interest to know the differences between the two people who care for children in the absence of their parents.
Here are some of the differences between a professional nanny and a babysitter:
When they are employed:
A nanny is employed when the parents have demanding jobs are not able to devote to the day-to-day needs of their children. Employed to take care of children when the parents are unavailable, they may work during prescribed weekends or evenings, or every weekday. She is the exclusive caregiver when the parents are not available.
A babysitter is employed by parents whenever needed like a special planned outing for a few hours and not on a daily or indefinite basis. If one babysitter is not available a parent could easily contact another one to take care of the kids.
Schedule:
A Professional nanny works full-time or part-time with only one family and the duties and hours are set and agreed upon in an employment.
Babysitters may work for multiple families and are employed as the need arises to help families with childcare during date-nights, weekends, or short periods of time while the parents run errands or attend to other commitments.
Experience:
Most professional nannies have at least 5 years of childcare experience out of which at least 3 years or more are of full-time nanny experience.
Babysitter is an entry level job and in some cases, a professional nanny may have begun their work in the childcare field as a babysitter.
Education:
A professional nanny may hold a college degree in child development, early childhood education or another related field and would be certified in first aid and CPR. Some may have a teaching credential or a master’s degree in education, or an area of expertise such as human behavior or psychology.
There is no set standard for level of education of a babysitter.
Disciplining:
Most nannies are given the permission by parents to discipline the children when they misbehave; they may also be responsible for planning activities on an ongoing basis.
A babysitter participates in activities only when they are with the children; parents are also stricter with a babysitter in terms of discipline, daily routine, and meal planning.
Job Duties:
Professional nannies are responsible for providing a safe, secure, engaging and nurturing environment for the children in their care. Their additional responsibilities may include organization of the children’s rooms, activities, transportation, meals, hygiene, crafts, educational exercises, transportation, meals, hygiene, scheduling, and travel. A professional nanny works cohesively with parents, teachers, doctors and specialists.
On the contrary a babysitter is also responsible for providing a safe and secure environment for children, with their responsibilities being limited to the time spent with the children in their care.
Long Term Career Goals:
A professional nanny chooses it as a long term career; they are active members of the nanny community and may join professional associations or attend events and conferences to remain fresh in the field.
Childcare is not the ultimate career goal of babysitters and they indulge in babysitting mostly as a means to support themselves through school or while they actively pursue other areas of interest.
Image Courtesy: Google
Take the next step toward your goals
Share your requirement and find the best care providers in your area
-
Looking for a caretaker’s job? Build your profile and get in touch with families in your vicinity.
-
Discover nannies, babysitters, cooks, housekeepers, pet sitters, and elder care under one roof.
-
Get all the support you need to run a successful care center.
-
Search for appropriate centers near you depending on your needs.
Care Corner Insights: Blog Library

Sing, Dance, Create: The Ultimate Performing Arts Summer Experience in Jersey City, NJ
Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to let your child’s creativity shine! If you’re a parent in Jersey City, NJ

Confidence through Learning: How Dance, Sports, & Arts Empower Kids in San Diego, CA
In the vibrant city of San Diego, CA, children are not just learning skills; they are building confidence and character through engaging activities in dance, sports, and the arts. These creative and physical outlets play a crucial role in the develop

Why Singing Helps with Language Learning & Memory Retention in Austin, TX
Ever caught yourself humming a song you heard years ago—lyrics and all? There’s science behind why music sticks in our brains so well! Whether you're learning a new language, helping a child with early development, or even supporting an aging loved o

Why Combining Music, Sports, & Art in Summer Camp is a Game-Changer in San Ramon, CA
Summer’s here, and if you’re a parent in San Ramon, chances are you’re already on the hunt for the perfect summer camp. But here’s the plot twist—why choose just music, only sports, or a bit of art when your child can experience all three?

How Summer Camp Builds Confidence, Creativity, and Friendships
Summer is just around the corner, and for many kids, that means one thing: summer camp! These fun-filled weeks away from home are not just about outdoor activities and campfires; they play a crucial role in a child’s development. Let’s explore how su

Inside the Fun: Daily Schedules at Our Summer Camp
Where Every Hour Sparks Joy, Learning, and Lifelong Memories! Summer break is here, and so is the ultimate destination for your child’s happiness and growth — our vibrant and thoughtfully planned summer camp! Whether your little one is an artist in

A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Summer Camp Programs
Because picking the right camp is almost as hard as getting your kid to pack on time! What Exactly Is a Summer Camp Program? At its heart, a summer camp

Deep Cleaning or Daily Help? Best Housekeepers in Orlando, FL
Orlando's magic isn't just found in its theme parks – it's also in coming home to a spotless, welcoming space after a long day. Whether you're a busy professional juggling work commitments, a family managing school schedules and activities, or someon

Daycare or Nanny? Pros and Cons Every Parent Should Consider in Milpitas, CA
Parenting is filled with tough decisions, and one of the biggest ones comes early: Should you choose a daycare or hire a nanny? For families in Milpitas, CA

Should Your Child Learn a Language, an Instrument, or a Sport? Here's How to Decide in Newark, CA
In a city like Newark, CA, where opportunities meet diversity, parents often find themselves wondering: Should I enroll my child in a language class, a music lesson