Congratulations! You are pregnant and now expecting your first baby! So exciting, however, also scarry! It can be overwhelming to take care of a new baby, especially if have never done this before! Many parents turn to newborn care specialists, also known as NCS, baby nurses, newborn nannies, night nannies, etc. to help ease the transition and provide expert care for their little one. In today’s blog, we are sharing some things to think of ahead of time that will help you make some educated decisions on hiring a newborn care specialist.
Qualifications and Experience
Newborn care specialists are highly trained childcare providers and know a lot more than a nanny would when it comes to the overnight care of a new baby. That’s not to say a nanny cannot take care of a newborn, however NCS do have a lot of training under their belt. Look for specialists who have certifications in CPR and First Aid, and have undergone training in caring for newborns. They should be familiar with topics such as feeding and sleep schedules, diapering, bathing, and soothing techniques. Some newborn care specialists may also have experience with premature babies or babies with special needs.
References and Reviews
Before hiring a newborn care specialist, ask for references from previous clients and read online reviews. You clearly will be better off using a professional agency to source your NCS, an you will want to make sure that the agency will be able to document the candidates reliability, trustworthiness, and the quality of care they provide. If doing it on your own, you can also ask for recommendations from your doctor, midwife, or other parents who have used a newborn care specialist before.
Services Offered
Because newborn care specialists offer different types of services, it’s important to discuss those things to nail down what your needs will be. Some specialists may only provide overnight care, while others may provide 24/7 care. Some may also offer postpartum support for the mother, such as meal preparation or light housekeeping. Some are even lactation consultants, midwives, and RN’s. Discussing your specific needs with the specialist upfront to make sure they are the right fit for your needs.
Availability and Scheduling
Newborn care specialists have different availability and scheduling, so it’s important to ensure their availability aligns with your needs. Also, it is very important to make sure you have gone over the schedule as well as any potential scheduling conflicts that may arise, such as a vacation or holiday.
Cost and Payment
The cost of hiring a newborn care specialist varies depending on the specialist’s experience and the services they provide. It’s important to discuss the cost of their services and payment terms to ensure they fit within your budget. Some newborn care specialists may require a deposit upfront, while others may require payment at the end of their services.
Communication and Rapport
Seaside Staffing Company cannot stress enough how imperative it is to have open, transparent communication. Your rapport with the newborn care specialist is crucial to ensure the best care possible for the baby. Establishing clear expectations, boundaries, and preferences for the baby’s care is important. The specialist should also provide regular updates on the baby’s progress and any concerns they may have.
In conclusion, hiring a newborn care specialist can be a great option for new parents who need extra support during the early days with their baby. When looking for a specialist, consider their qualifications and experience, references and reviews, services offered, availability and scheduling, cost and payment, and communication and rapport. With the right specialist, parents can have peace of mind knowing their baby is in expert hands.
