Finding the perfect childcare solution for your family can be a daunting task. Especially when you decide to welcome that care provider into your home. There are so many different types of domestic childcare jobs out there, from nannies and babysitters to postpartum doulas and house managers. It’s important to know what each provider’s job entails before deciding which is best for your family. That’s why Nanny Posse is here—to help you make sense of it all! Let’s break down the differences between the various types of domestic childcare jobs so that you can find the best fit for your family.
Nanny
A nanny is a professional childcare provider who works in the family’s home, providing care on a consistent full-time or part-time basis. A nanny will typically have some kind of formal education or experience in childcare, as well as CPR/first aid training. They may also hold specialty certifications depending on their niche, such as newborn care training for infants, lifeguard qualifications for working on boats or near water, and more. Nannies will often do light housework related to their role as a caregiver, such as children’s laundry and meal preparation, but their primary focus is on caring for and engaging with the children they are responsible for.
Postpartum Doula
Postpartum doulas provide specialized care for new mothers, helping them adjust to life with a newborn baby. They assist with tasks such as breastfeeding support, infant soothing techniques, light housekeeping, meal preparation, and errands related to caring for a newborn. Postpartum doulas do not provide direct care for infants; instead, they offer emotional support and guidance to new mothers during this important transition period.
Babysitter
Babysitters are typically hired on an as-needed basis when parents only ad-hoc care from their home. Most babysitters do not have any formal experience or qualifications in childcare. However, some may have taken classes on child development or first aid/CPR training. Babysitting usually involves playing with the children, providing prepared snacks and meals, helping with homework, or reading stories before bedtime—all depending on the age of the child(ren).
Mother’s Helper
Mother’s helpers are similar to babysitters but typically provide less intensive care than full-time nannies do. Mother’s helpers work while a parent or guardian is present in the home. Mother’s helpers will often assist with household tasks such as tidying up children’s spaces or doing children’s laundry when not supervising children at play. This is a great job for someone new to the industry with limited childcare experience.
Governess/Governor
Governesses and governors are highly specialized roles that involve providing personalized attention tailored specifically to educate children. They may provide instruction in activities such as foreign language instruction, musical training, art lessons, etc. As well as instruction in more traditional academic tutoring in math and science subjects. Governesses and governors also act as role models by demonstrating good manners, proper etiquette etc., setting an example for children about how to behave properly in society in general. These providers often work alongside a nanny.
House Manager
House managers handle all of the administrative duties associated with managing a household, such as booking appointments or organizing social events like parties or holiday celebrations etc. They may also arrange travel plans when needed and organize and supervise contractors when required. House managers may also be responsible for overseeing other staff members such as nannies, governesses/governors or cleaners etc.
With so many different types of domestic childcare jobs available today, it can be difficult knowing which one would best suit your needs—but don’t worry! At Nanny Posse, we understand how overwhelming it can all be, so we’re here to help you make sense of it all! We hope this guide has shed some light on different types of domestic childcare jobs. However, if you are still unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
