If you’re passionate about caring for the littlest ones, you might be wondering about the differences between a newborn care specialist (NCS) and a newborn nanny. Let’s dive into what sets these two roles apart.

Newborn Nanny: The All-Around Caregiver

A newborn nanny provides general care for newborns. Here’s a peek at what this role entails:

• General Care: You’ll be handling tasks like feeding, changing diapers, and soothing the baby. You’re there to help establish sleep routines and provide that extra pair of hands new parents often need.
• Flexible Schedule: Your hours can vary widely. You might work part-time or full-time, with day shifts being the norm. Essentially, your role is to be there when the family needs you, offering flexible support tailored to their unique schedule.
• Family Support: It’s all about being a reliable, comforting presence for the family. You might also assist with light household tasks related to the baby, like washing bottles or organizing the nursery.

Newborn Care Specialist (NCS): The Expert in All Things Newborn

An NCS takes newborn care to the next level with specialized expertise. Here’s what makes an NCS different:

• Specialized Expertise: NCSs focus exclusively on newborns, typically ages 0-3 months old. This role is all about offering intensive, expert care during those crucial early months. Though not required by all families, NCSs typically have formal training, like a newborn care specialist certification. There are various NCS certification programs. Do some research to find one that suits you! (Our recommendation? Newborn Care Solutions.)
• Intensive Care: NCSs often work 24/7 or overnight shifts, providing round-the-clock support to ensure the baby’s needs are met at any hour. Your main goal is to help parents navigate the newborn stage with confidence and to provide education as to how to proceed once your contract has come to an end.
• Short-Term Roles: NCS assignments usually last up to three months. You come in, work your magic, and then move on to the next family, leaving a trail of grateful parents in your wake. That said, some families and NCSs form a bond that they would like to expand on. If both parties are interested, a long-term contract can be established. However, this will be up to the discretion of the NCS and the family.

Which Role Suits You Best?

Choosing between a career as a newborn nanny and an NCS depends on your experience, qualifications, and lifestyle preferences. Here are a few things to consider:

• Do you love the flexibility of different shifts and varied hours? If so, a newborn nanny role might be perfect for you.
• Are you passionate about offering specialized, round-the-clock care? If you have the qualifications and love diving deep into newborn care, becoming an NCS could be your calling.

I Have Newborn Experience! Can I Apply for NCS Positions Through Westside Nannies? What Are Westside Nannies’ Requirements?

Every agency (and family!) is different. As for Westside Nannies, here’s what we require to be considered for our NCS positions:

• 2+ years of NCS-specific experience. This can include overnights, 24/7s, and daytime care, but it must be NCS-specific
• An NCS certification

NOTE: While your newborn experience will qualify you for newborn nannying positions, these specific requirements for NCS jobs through Westside Nannies are not flexible.

At Westside Nannies, we value both roles immensely and understand the unique contributions each brings to the table. Whether you’re providing general care as a Newborn Nanny or offering specialized support as an NCS, you’re making a huge difference in the lives of families.

So, think about what fits your style best, and get ready to embark on a rewarding journey in newborn care.