We all know that the profession of being a nanny or sitter can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Developing relationships, both professional and personal, is key to finding balance and sustainability. There are many ways that you can build your nanny network—here’s a list to get you started.
1. Join a Group (or Two)
If you haven’t yet, joining online community groups is a simple way to start connecting with other care providers. It can be a safe space to ask questions, get insights from other professionals, vent frustrations, and share experiences. This might not be the place to make intimate connections, but it can be a great way to find the resources you need and support the community at the same time.
Here are some groups to check out and see if they’re a good fit for you.
Sittercity Facebook Community Group
This private, provider-only Sittercity group is a safe place for nannies and sitters to connect, ask for advice, and provide support to other nannies who are using Sittercity to find work.
My Nanny Circle
Founded by Alene Mathurin, a seasoned nanny professional, this interactive group for nannies, babysitters, families, and anyone who professionally provides child care. Discuss child care trends, connect on interests, and share stories.
The Black Nanny Network
A safe space created specifically for black Nannies, Doulas, Baby Nurses, Midwives, Au Pairs, and Child Development Specialists. From job postings and career advice to networking opportunities and community events, they’re committed to helping all black child care providers achieve their goals and fulfill their potential.
2. Engage On Social Media
This may sound like a silly/simple idea, but a way to begin making connections with other professionals is to engage with the growing social media community. There are so many creators sharing interesting and helpful content. By commenting on and sharing content you enjoy, you’re supporting other nannies and sitters and opening the door to potential relationships.
Start by following Sittercity on Instagram or Facebook. Meet your next long-distance friend in the comments section!
3. Attend Your Local International Nanny Training Day
iNNTD is a collective of individual local child care training events that promote the importance of nanny training and raising the quality of nanny care. It was founded by Lora Brawley of Nanny Care Hub in 2012, passed to Nannypalooza’s Sue Downey in 2015, and the event moved internationally in 2016. It’s a way for local communities of nannies to share professional development information and network with one another.
By attending your local training day, not only can you get some valuable continuing education, you can also connect with other nannies and sitters in your area. Check out the iNNTD website for information on the next training day and the locations.
4. Attend A Nanny Conference
A big way to find yourself in a room with a bunch of other nannies is at a conference. Multiple large conferences are put on, especially for in-home child care professionals. Here are just a few.
Nannypalooza
Nannypalooza is a national nanny conference. Designed by nannies, for nannies, the gathering is a weekend of learning, connecting and growing as a professional. The workshops are designed to give you information on real-life issues you face with your charges. You’ll be able to choose the workshops that you are most interested in along with plenty of time for chatting with other nannies and agency owners from all over the country.
INA Summit
The International Nanny Association (INA) is a not-for-profit organization aiming to serve nannies, newborn care specialists, employers, agencies, industry service providers, and anyone in the nanny industry. Their Summit is 2 full days of workshops to learn new ideas, activities, and tools for working with kids.
NannyCon
NannyCON is an international conference that focuses on professional development training in combination with wellness workshops. All attendees get a CPD certificate that they can add to their career portfolio. Hosted by BNT Nannies—an organization founded by Nanny Sharz, it’s an international, inclusive, and diverse community that focuses on Bringing nannies & child care professionals together through events.
5. Reach Out To Someone You Admire
Sometimes the simplest answer to developing strong relationships with like-minded peers is to just start by saying, “Hello!” The internet has connected many nannies from across the world. It may seem nerve-wracking at first, but a simple message saying, “I see what you’re doing and I really admire it” is a great way to begin a friendship.
However you build your professional nanny network, the most important thing is to take the first step. Networking takes work, but a little investment can go a long way in growing a thriving and sustainable career in child care. Happy mingling!
