One of the most asked question we get from families starting their search for childcare is, “what is the difference between a babysitter and a nanny?”
Although these two positions might seem like they are identical, the truth is they’re not. We’ve come up with a list of five key differences between nannies and babysitters that we feel will help you in your quest to finding what fits best for your family.
The Schedule
Nannies typically work full-time for a family. This means they’re working usually anywhere between 40- 50 hours a week consistently with one family. Key word here, ONE.
A babysitter on the other hand, is someone who is used “on call” or “as needed”. Babysitters typically work a couple of times a week or month depending on need. Babysitters are usually the ones who are coming in and staying for a few hours here or there. Babysitters are working with many different families at a time.
Duties
Although some may think that nannies and babysitters have the same duties, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Nannies duties usually include anything child related in the home. Duties could include creating daily schedules, homework help, picking up and dropping off to activities, preparing meals, getting children ready for school, making sure uniforms are washed and tidy, caring for the emotional development and intelligence of children. This is a much more hands-on role in a family’s world. Nannies are an extension of parents. Nannies are often working closely with parents on developing their personal parenting styles. Nannies have specialized skills and professional goals in the childcare industry. Many move from childcare to family assisting. They are consistent and typically have held a long-term roll in a home in the past. Check out what we look for in our nanny candidates here.
Babysitters on the other hand tend to be working part-time and looking to pick up extra hours. Their duties usually revolve around keeping children safe and supervise play. You may have them come over while you’re out on a date night or event. You may ask them to do extra tasks here and there , but nothing required on a regular basis.
Education | Certifications
A full-time professional nanny usually has some kind of advanced background. This can be a combination of many years of experience, an advanced degree in early childhood education or a teaching certificate. They tend to have had special training working with children with special needs, different parenting styles and age groups. They have invested time in their background to care for children. They bring their special talents to the table every day to help parents be the best parents they can be.
Babysitters are more of an entry-level position when it comes to childcare. A babysitter is not expected to have a four year college degree (although some do), they have your basic understanding of childcare, basic cpr and first aid.
How they are being paid.
One of the biggest differences between a nanny and a babysitter is the how they are paid.
Let’s start with Nannies. Nannies should be paid via W-2 and are considered hourly employees. Families often offer vacation time, sick time, holiday pay, and a stipend towards medical insurance. Most importantly the nanny and the family they work for are paying taxes (make sure that you’re checking with your state for All the specific legal requirements you need to meet in order to employer nanny).
A babysitter is paid differently. A babysitter is working for many families and is usually paid cash. The reason being is that when they’re working for many families, they’re not reaching the threshold set forth by the IRS in order to have to pay taxes for each family.
For more in-depth look on how nannies are paid check out one of our partners Homework Solutions for an more in-depth conversation on the who, what and hows of how to pay correctly.
Hourly Rates
Nannies are considered professional career childcare providers. Hourly rates depend a number of factors. This includes taking into consideration the area you live in, overtime laws by state, level of education, background and in some areas cost of living. Nannies in larger metropolitan areas such as New York City, San Francisco and LA, typically have a higher hourly rate starting anywhere from $25 an hour to $40 an hour.
Babysitters are paid by the hour. The rate is determined by the area you live in. Every city varies and we suggest you research the going minimum wage in your area vs typical babysitter rates. If you are asking your babysitter to have a huge role in your child’s life beyond popping a movie in and making popcorn while you’re out on a date night, you can expect your babysitter to charge more per hour.
Whatever you call your child’s caregiver, a nanny or a babysitter, it is important that you are communicating what your needs are and respecting the person in your home.
Have a more specific question about the difference between a nanny and a babysitter? Let us know! Call us at the office (310) 435-9486 or email us at hello@modernminders.com and one of our team members would love to chat with you more.
