There are no legal or industry-wide requirements for working as a nanny.  The title is self-imposed.  Some caregivers don’t give themselves enough credit, others give themselves too much.  You’ll find “babysitters” that consistently meet the needs of the whole child and you’ll find “nannies” that simply provide custodial care for 12 hours a day.  Judge a caregiver by what she can provide you and your child, not by what she calls herself.  

There are two general categories under the title of nanny, mother's helper and full charge.  A mother’s helper works under the supervision of a stay-at-home / work-at-home parent or full charge nanny.  She supports the parent or nanny by taking on basic childcare tasks such as diapering, bathing, dressing, and feeding as well as time-consuming child-related tasks such as laundry, meal preparation and straightening up.  The entry-level nanny also cares for the child when the parent or nanny is busy or out of the house.  She is able to improve and increase her caregiving skills under the guidance of a mentor parent or full charge nanny.

A full charge nanny, also called a professional or career nanny, is responsible for the emotional, social, cognitive and physical development of the child she cares for.  A full charge nanny may choose to work as a caregiving partner with a stay-at-home parent.  In contrast to the parent’s helper, she works “with” rather than “for” the stay-at-home parent. 

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