What are the National Nanny Standards?
The US Nanny Association’s National Nanny Standards (usnanny.org/standards) define the nanny industry by providing a comprehensive approach to child care and child development that enable nannies to successfully use and adapt caregiving techniques. The standards include diverse, proven methodologies and child care skills that align with the differing needs of families, parenting customs and laws in the United States. US Nanny Association National Standards align with US laws, child care standards, education requirements & cultural norms.
The US Nanny Association National Nanny Standards for child care are based on the research of child care educators and industry leaders. The National Nanny Standards align with national early childhood development post-secondary curricula, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessments, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). While there are no laws requiring nanny standards in the United States, industry standards and credentials recognize quality training and work experience.
“Child care certification programs for nannies, like those offered by the Nanny Institute and US Nanny Association are available to help families ensure their children are cared for by qualified persons” shared Dr. Lauren Formy-Duval, a child psychologist, adjunct professor, and mom. “Nannies and sitters investing in high-quality training based on national standards not only gain practical skills but also enable a career path, just like teachers and other professionals.”
The National Nanny Standards were established and approved by the Standards Advisory Team. The US Nanny Standards are reviewed and updated by the Standards Advisory Team. The Standards Advisory Team includes select members of the US Nanny Association Board of Directors and additional faculty, professional nannies, Newborn and Infant Care Professional, agency owners, nanny employers, and other child care industry leaders.
The standards are divided into three categories – Nanny (N), Newborn and Infant (I) and Professional Nanny (P). These levels align with the skills valued by nanny agencies and employers. In the United States, some families maintain that the child care provider’s primary role is to supervise children and ensure they are kept safe. These families hire sitters and entry-level nannies, often paying entry-level wages. Other families want to hire a fully trained child care specialist or professional nanny. These families view child care as a profession and expect training and additional qualifications for higher wages.
