How do I Become a Nanny?

There's really no set training or background required to become a nanny. Basically, a love of children and high level of responsibility are required. Most people don't need formal training, education, or even extensive experience. However, time spent babysitting as a teen, caring for younger brothers and sisters, caring for your own children, or working for a daycare center may help potential employers have more confidence in your abilities.

Becoming a nanny can be as simple as placing an advertisement in your local newspaper classifieds. Your ad should indicate your desire to fill a nanny position and list any related qualities you have, such as a nurturing personality and reliability. If you have taken any early childhood education classes, it's a good idea to list these as well. Likewise, such things as CPR and first aid training could be listed in your ad or related to potential employers during interviews. These things are not required by all employers, but they can give you an edge on other candidates as you seek to become a nanny.

You may also place flyers in places that parents frequent, such as supermarkets, laundromats, libraries, and recreational centers. On your flyer, clearly state your desire for a nanny position and list some of your qualifications. Include your telephone number or email address to make it easy for potential employers to contact you. Be sure to look for help-wanted ads on the bulletin boards where you place your fliers. Often, parents looking for nannies will post in such places as well.

You may decide to go through an agency to become a nanny. When you do this, the agency takes care of finding someone to hire you, but it may take a cut of your pay in exchange for its services. Additionally, a nanny agency may require you to meet certain criteria to become a nanny, such as past experience or education. In some cases, you may also be subject to a background check. Keep in mind, however, that independent employers sometimes require background checks as well; you are just more likely to see this requirement with a nanny agency.

When you become a nanny, there are many work-schedule options. Some parents will want you to live in and watch their children full time. Others will expect you to live in your own home and travel to their homes to care for their children. You may have a full-time or part-time schedule, and weekends may or may not be required when you become a nanny. These things are negotiable, and you can look for employers whose needs match your own.