22 tasks, each one witnessed by the sources that watched the job — and behind every one, a prompt you can use tonight.
You usually start by checking the family schedule and any notes in a paper log or Excel sheet the parents use. Mornings often include feeding, changing diapers, supervising play, and a walk or short outing for fresh air.
Midday is meal or snack prep, nap time with a timed rest schedule, and light housekeeping like washing bottles and tidying play areas. Afternoon includes homework help (for older kids), organizing activities or playdates, and handing over a written record of meals, naps, and any medicine given.
You must be able to create a safe environment, remove hazards, set boundaries, and perform first aid or CPR when needed. Employers often ask for current pediatric CPR and first-aid certification from recognized providers like the Red Cross.
You should know how to administer basic medicine per family instructions and keep careful records—times, doses, and any reactions—in a notebook, Word document, or spreadsheet parents prefer.
Yes. Many families expect simple digital record-keeping. Microsoft Excel is common for schedules, expense logs, or meal plans. Microsoft Word is used for notes or incident reports, and Web browsers for finding activities, recipes, or local services.
You don’t need to be an expert: basic file opening/saving, typing short reports, and entering simple data into Excel (dates, times, short notes) is usually enough.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports 518,910 people employed as nannies and related workers. The BLS 2025 numbers show a median pay of $34,980 per year, the lowest tenth at $24,260, and the top tenth at $46,010.
These figures are national medians. Actual pay depends on your location, hours, duties (like overnight care, driving, or housework), and experience.
A nanny is usually a regular care provider who helps develop or monitor a family schedule, plans meals, organizes activities, helps with homework, and keeps records. They often transport children and perform ongoing duties like diapering, bathing, and administering medicine.
A babysitter is typically occasional, short-term care focused on supervising and entertaining. Nannies handle long-term development, consistent routines, and more detailed record-keeping using systems like Word or Excel if the family asks.
Begin with basic certifications: pediatric CPR/first aid and safe sleep training. Volunteer or offer part-time help for family friends to build references, and keep simple logs of tasks you did (meals, naps, activities) to show prospective employers.
Create a short resume in Word listing babysitting for neighbors, childcare classes, and your certifications. Mention familiarity with Excel for scheduling and showability of clear record samples.