Download NANC 3 Tier Credential Overview
Join Credential Discussion Group (NANC members only)
The NANC credential will provide a comprehensive, objective process to accurately assess a caregiver’s knowledge level and skill set. By defining what a nanny needs to know and be able to do, the credential will in effect set minimum standards for nanny care. These standards will provide a critical safeguard for the hundreds of thousands of children being cared for in their own homes.
Of course, the credential will also have a powerful ripple effect. It will increase the public’s awareness of the valuable work nannies do and help debunk the idea that anyone can do this job. It will provide real world hiring guidelines for placement agencies and parents, increasing the quality of caregivers in the field. It will position nannying as a valid career choice for childcare professionals. And it will provide a career lattice for nanny care, supporting caregivers as they grow personally and professionally.
The media reminds us daily that our industry is in the midst of a crisis. One that carries serious consequences for the children involved. During the past few months, I’ve seen stories on “nannies” that abused children, neglected children, sold drugs with a charge in tow, killed children while driving drunk in an employer’s car, and kept a sexually explicit blog during working hours. While I don’t know any of these caregivers personally, I’ll bet none would meet my standard (or yours!) of a quality caregiver. But what does that matter? It’s only an opinion. Until we provide an objective, research based, measurable standard we will never be able to legitimately define “nanny”.
If you agree it’s time for the nanny industry to step up and create real world standards for its caregivers, take a few minutes and look over the details of the NANC 3 tier credential. Then join us. Bringing across the board standards to the nanny industry will take the time, talent and energy of many. But the rewards are well worth the investment.
Lora Brawley
President, NANC
Download NANC 3 Tier Credential Overview
Join Credential Discussion Group (NANC members only)
