There’s a whole lot of lingo when it comes to child care. Two of the most popular terms? Babysitter and nanny. They’re often used interchangeably, but, technically speaking, there’s a pretty big difference between the two. Each role typically varies in responsibilities, experience, time commitment, and more. Here’s a quick explanation:
Responsibilities:
A nanny is more like a modern day Mary Poppins, handling more tasks, such as…
- Making meals and prepping snacks for children
- Bringing kids to and from school
- Doing laundry for the children
- Helping with homework
- Organizing activities and play dates
- Managing nap times, bedtimes, and everyday routines
Of course, a babysitter can do all of the above, too, but it’s not always part of the job description. In general, sitters are mostly in charge of supervision and ensuring kids stay safe and entertained. A few of the most common tasks for sitters are…
- Playing with children
- Feeding them snacks or meals that are already prepared
- Putting them down to nap or to bed at night
Time Commitment
A nanny typically works for one family for a longer, more consistent period of time and on a regular schedule, whether that means full-time or part-time. Some nannies might also live with a family, but it’s definitely not a requirement.
A babysitter is often hired for occasional time slots or on short notice, say, to watch the children for a few hours here or there, or for regular date nights.
Experience and Training
A nanny is often a career position so they often have specific training or certifications such as CPR and First Aid as well as several years of experience on their resume. Some nannies specialize in newborn and infant care while others might back education backgrounds and degrees.
A babysitter is often on the younger side, maybe a high school or college student, with less formal training and experience. But that doesn’t mean they’re not enthusiastic and passionate about child care.
Cost
A nanny might charge more per hour than a babysitter if they’re managing more responsibilities such as planning and preparing meals. They’re often paid per week rather than per hour, and many nannies receive additional benefits (such as transportation reimbursement or meal stipend).
A babysitter usually charges by the hour and the rate might be lower than a nanny’s, depending on location and number of children.
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison between the two roles:
|
Babysitters |
Nannies |
|
|
Hourly rate? |
$22.50/hour |
$22.50/hour |
|
Payment schedule? |
Typically paid at each sitting |
By the week or or month, with taxes taken out |
|
Employment status? |
Typically short-term or temporary, but sometimes regular |
Regular |
|
Schedule? |
On an as-needed basis |
Part-time or full-time, usually while parents work |
|
Vacation? |
No |
Yes |
|
Certification? |
CPR and first aid; child care training and/or experience |
CPR and first aid; child care training and/or years of experience |
|
Tasks beyond child care? |
Variable and mutually-agreed upon by sitter and parents. |
Might include meal prep, laundry, errands or driving. Mutually-agreed up on by nanny and parents. |
Need help figuring out which one is right for you? Post a job today on Sittercity and check out applications to find a caregiver that’s a perfect fit for your family.
