Whether you are thinking about becoming a nanny or have been a nanny for several years, there is always something new to learn about caring for children and working as a nanny. A quality nanny training program can help increase care giving skills, foster professional development and build confidence. From one day conferences to full year or more campus based programs, there are many educational opportunities for those seeking a career as a professional nanny to consider.
Annual Nanny Conferences
International Nanny Association. The International Nanny Association (INA) serves as the umbrella organization for the in-home child care industry. The association offers guidance, information and education to industry professionals and the public. INA offers a Basic Skills Exam and the INA Nanny Credential Exam. The association has also published a book, both in English and Spanish, titled Beyond Parenting Basics: The International Nanny Association’s Official Guide to In-Home Childcare. INA members have access to INA’s Nanny Mentor Program as well as discounts for eStore purchases and Annual Conference registration, the association’s main event of the year. The cost of INA membership for nannies is $35 per year. INA’s 2013 Annual Conference will be held in Louisville, Kentucky in the spring of 2013. Those who joined INA after June 1, 2012 and who have never attended an INA Annual Conference are eligible to receive 50% off of their conference registration fees. Learn more at www.nanny.org.
Nannypalooza. Nannypalooza is a 2-day conference held each year for nannies and those who support the nanny industry. The 2012 event will be held October 13th and 14th at the Philadelphia Airport Hilton in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Registration is $140. Nannypalooza provides an opportunity for nannies to learn new skills, to make new friends and to have fun. To learn more about Nannypalooza, visit www.nannypalooza.com.
National Nanny Training Day. National Nanny Training Day is a one day educational event hosted by various nannies, nanny groups and nanny placement agencies across the country and is organized by Nanny Biz Reviews. The 2012 event brought together nearly 1,300 nannies from across the United States and Canada for a day of professional development, childcare training and networking. Over 30 events were held in 27 cities across the United States. The 2012 National Nanny Training Day will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2013. To learn more about National Nanny Training Day visit www.nannybizreviews.com.
Nanny Schools
The English Nanny and Governess School. Since 1984, The English Nanny and Governess School (ENGS) has provided nanny training to aspiring nannies. Located in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, The English Nanny and Governess School offers students the opportunity to become a Certified Processional Nanny or a Certified Professional Governess upon successful completion of the school’s program and a passing grade on the American Council of Nanny School’s exam. The English Nanny and Governess School is a member of the International Nanny Association and the American Council of Nanny Schools. The school is also approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools. To learn more about the English Nanny and Governess visit www.nanny-governess.com.
The Alexandria School. Founded in 2007, the Alexandria School offers diploma and certificate programs for nannies, including the 18 week diploma program and the Advanced Professional Nanny Certificate. For those looking to expand their service offerings into newborn care, the school also offers a newborn care specialist certificate. Based in Solon, Ohio, the school offers both on-site and distance learning options. The Alexandria School is a member of the International Nanny Association. The Alexandria School is also approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools. To learn more about current course offerings, visit www.alexandria-school.com.
Sullivan University. Sullivan University offers professional nanny students the opportunity to earn a career diplomat in as little as 12 months. Students can complete the coursework online or at the Louisville, Kentucky or Lexington, Kentucky campus. Sullivan University is a member of the International Nanny Association and the American Council of Nanny Schools. To learn more about Sullivan University’s nanny program, visit http://www.sullivan.edu/professional-nanny.asp.
Northwest Nannies Institute. Northwest Nannies Institute (NNI) based in Lake Oswego, Oregon, offers a 30 week nanny training program, which includes classroom time, homework time and a practicum. Northwest Nannies Institute is licensed by the State of Oregon as a private career school and approved by the US Department of Education as a Title IV School. NNI is also a member of the International Nanny Association and the American Council of Nanny Schools. To learn more about Northwest Nannies Institute visit
Continuing your education not only benefits you, but it benefits the children in your care and the families for whom you work. If you are serious about being a career nanny, consider continuing your education. Like with any career, the more specialized education you have, the greater your earning potential and marketability will be. When competing for jobs, setting yourself a part as an educated professional could make the difference between landing the job and the job going to someone else.
This is the type of career that can be very rewarding, as nannies play a large role in the child’s developmental years. Having a loving caregiver assures the parents that someone trustworthy is taking care of their child/children, and that their safety is of the utmost importance. pb