How to Become a Registered Nanny
A registered nanny or a Certified Professional Nanny (CPN) is a credential awarded to nannies who wish to broaden their experience and qualifications. While there is no universal requirement to become a nanny, obtaining nanny certification beyond basic work experience is a great way to give yourself the competitive edge when applying for nanny positions.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Decide on the type of nanny you want to be. Typical positions include being a part-time nanny, full-time live-out nanny, full-time live-in nanny, nanny housekeeper or a summer nanny.
-
2
Register with a professional nanny association to stay abreast of current nanny training as well as other important news. Associations such as the National Association of Nannies and the International Nanny Association provide immense networking and nanny education opportunities that are not afforded to nannies outside of the organization.
-
-
3
If you reside in the United States, register with a nanny training school that is accredited by the American Council of Nanny Schools. A list of schools nearest you is available through their website. (See Resources.) Accredited nanny training schools provide curriculum designed to teach the fundamentals of in-home child care in relation to your role as a nanny. Successful completion of nanny training will allow you to receive your Certified Professional Nanny (CPN) credential.
-
4
Complete 200 hours of contact work that consists of instructional lectures and other course discussions held under direct supervision of your school's faculty.
-
5
Complete a minimum of 100 hours of field work in which you work one-on-one with children under the direct supervision of a faculty member.
-
6
Complete and submit the required forms to the American Council of Nanny Schools for review of your eligibility for a Certified Professional Nanny credential. Once approved, you can use this credential in conjunction with your other professional achievements when applying for nanny positions.
-
7
Locate and register with a certified nanny agency in your state or country.
-
8
Submit an application that highlights your qualifications. Additionally, be sure to have numerous letters of references on hand that will accompany your application.
-
9
Allow at least two weeks for your application to be reviewed and an interview to be scheduled with the nanny agency.
-
10
If hired, select a nanny position from the pool of available jobs that fulfills your requirements. Express your interest in this position to the agency who will forward your application to the family.
-
11
Be prepared for another interview with the family or an agency representative and the family together. After your interview, be aware that an extensive background check as well as a criminal history check will be performed.
-
12
Before being hired, negotiate a work agreement contract between yourself, the agency and the family. Ensure that you receive your agreed upon pay rate, vacation days, sick days, living arrangements and any other benefits such as medical and dental.
Additionally, be clear about what is included in your job description. Duties such as housekeeping expectations and child care expectations should be clearly defined.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Ensure that you are current on vital certifications such as CPR and first aid training before you apply to any nanny position.
If applying for a position online, be sure to upload a recent photo of yourself that will be attached to your application.
Though not required, obtaining registered nanny training will give you an advantage over other candidates since it adds to your experience as a nanny.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Child looking upward image by Olga Ekaterincheva from Fotolia.com
