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In our industry, we have already settled the debate and established a professional term to describe this unique segment of in-home childcare professionals. The International Nanny Association INA led a discussion among industry leaders in Washington DC back in 2007, where they reached an agreement on adopting Newborn Care Specialist as the unifying and official title for caregivers specializing in caring for infants during their first few weeks.
However, we still face confusion between terms like 'Newborn Care Specialist' and 'Baby Nurse'. Despite efforts by the industry leader to clarify that there is a recognized professional term - Newborn Care Specialist - this terminology issue persists. It's time for all stakeholders involved, including caregivers and agencies placing them, to unite in correcting this issue.
There are several reasons for continued confusion around these terms:
Historically, Baby Nurse was commonly used, but it caused frustration among both parents who were expecting professional RN care, and nurses themselves who felt their title was being misappropriated by childcare professionals.
Agencies have not always been proactive in placing or referring Newborn Care Specialists under the correct term, thus lacking incentive to educate clients on terminology differences.
Some caregivers have found it challenging to distinguish between roles and responsibilities as Baby Nurses vs Newborn Care Specialists.
As an International Nanny Association member, here's what we need to do:
Education: Let's make sure everyone understands that a Baby Nurse typically refers to registered nurses providing hospital-based care, while our professional term is Newborn Care Specialist. Both roles require specialized knowledge and skills but are distinct from each other.
Professional Standards: As Newborn Care Specialists, let us uphold the professional standards associated with this title - which includes trning on infant feeding, sleeping patterns, and early development needs. We should educate others about what our role entls and highlight differences in qualifications compared to Baby Nurses or general babysitters.
Consistent Communication: Agencies need to familiarize themselves with the responsibilities of a Newborn Care Specialist - like understanding what trning is required and communicating those standards to potential clients.
Let's work together as an organization, recognizing that it will require effort but will ensure clarity for our industry. By consistently using Newborn Care Specialist in professional forums and discussions, we can collectively establish this term among caregivers, agencies, and the public alike.
To clarify any queries about education, responsibilities, or industry standards for Newborn Care Specialists, please reach out to Tonya Sakowicz - our NCS Mentor Chr. She leads seminars through local organizations and agencies and mentors new NCS professionals on the essential skills they need.
Tonya Sakowicz is an internationally recognized expert in childcare management with experience as both a credentialed nanny and Newborn Care Specialist. She offers consulting services, conducts sleep conditioning programs for families, educates communities about infant care through workshops, and oversees a website dedicated to supporting newborn parents.
Contact us at the International Nanny Association to join our mission towards elevating and nurturing the standard of childcare quality globally.
International Nanny Association
P.O Box 70895
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Toll-Free: 888.878.1477
Eml: [email protected]
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Unifying Term for Newborn Care Professionals Newborn Care Specialist: Industry Definition Differentiating Nanny Roles Clearly Explained Enhancing Communication in Childcare Services Professional Standards for Newborn Care Specialists Eliminating Terminology Confusion in Childcare