When it comes to choosing the best childcare option for your family you may be considering hiring a babysitter or nanny, although the two terms seem interchangeable there is in fact quite a few determining factors that differentiate the two, making the most informed decision is a lot easier when you factor in the needs of your family vs the type of caregiver that your family require. Although both baby sitters and nannies are caretakers of children their roles and responsibilities are very different.
The Babysitter
A babysitter is a temporary caregiver whose primary goal is to ensure the safety and well being of your children. They are hired as needed, usually for no more than a few hours at a time. A babysitter is ideal for parents needing someone who has basic childcare and first aid training for when they need to be away from home for a few hours. You may need someone to fetch your children from school and take care of them until you finish work. A babysitter is ideal for parents going on a date night, or an occasion where children may not be allowed. A babysitter is a casual contractor who is often in a temp position, they provide basic childminding whilst entertaining the children for a few hours ensuring their safety. They usually will help with minimal household duties while sitting. Babysitters are less expensive due to working a few hours per day. Most babysitters would consider sitting as a casual job and are generally not working toward a childcare career.
The Nanny
On the other hand, a nanny is generally employed full time by a family, they will have more advanced childcaring and first aid skills, many will be working toward a career in childcare. A nanny is an integral part of the day-to-day care of your children and are an extension of the parents. Nannies are a solid option, especially for parents who work full time. A nanny’s duties are varied and matched to a family’s needs.
Nannies are employed on a full-time basis and typically work +- 40-hour weeks. Your nanny will provide well rounded holistic childcare. They will help run the household and duties can include; preparing and cooking food, helping with laundry and generally help keep your home environment clean. Nannies become an integral part of family and become a much-loved additional member. A nanny is very involved with your child’s wellbeing, general development, emotional, mental and physical wellbeing.
A nanny will essentially be a full-time employee, as such there is more administrate duties as you will need to issue them a paycheck, which also means deducting taxes from their pay and submitting to government and potentially providing healthcare benefits. This is where a Nanny Agency is a sound choice and is a must for selecting the best choice for your family.
In summary here are a few key factors to consider when choosing a nanny or a babysitter:
Duties & Experience –
A nanny will have more experience and their duties will include helping with running the household,
whereas a babysitter will have less experience and their duties are mainly to provide safe childcare.
Schedules –
A nanny works full time and is usually with one family a babysitter works flexi hours and works for
many families.
