Due to the nature and hours of the job, it’s no surprise that nannies often don’t have the time to enroll in traditional educational courses offered at colleges and universities.
Even so, there are other ways that even the busiest of nannies can stay up-to-date on child development, educational trends and other child care related topics that can increase their knowledge base and sharpen their skills.
Here are 5 ways you can continue your education on your schedule and from the comfort on your own home:
1. Hold membership in professional organizations. The National Association for the Education of Young Children and the International Nanny Association are two amazing associations that provide high quality resources to their members. In addition to newsletters both offer training through educational conferences that can be completed in a weekend.
2. Subscribe to parenting magazines. There are a variety of parenting magazines that provide helpful articles and information on all things child related. If you specialize in caring for multiples for example, you’ll want to check out Twins Magazine. If you work with a child affected by autism, you may want to check out The Autism Perspective.
3. Visit websites of reputable organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, Kids Health and the Consumer Product Safety Commission to stay current on recommended practices regarding child development, health and safety.
4. Read books. Visit any local library and you’ll find a slew of books on child care and child rearing. The International Nanny Association has a list of recommended books on their website that may interest you. Some of my favorites include:
*Nanny to the Rescue! by Michelle LaRowe
*Beyond Parenting Basics: The International Nanny Association’s Official Guide to In-Home Childcare
5. Take online courses. In addition to many colleges and universities, online learning portals like Carecourses.com offer child care distance learning programs. CARE Courses offered through carecourses.com are recognized toward the training requirement to obtain or renew both the CCP (Certified Childcare Professional) national credential and CDA (Child Development Associates Credential) national credential.
With all the resources available, continuing your education is more affordable and accessible then ever. Take advantage of these resources to improve your skills and knowledge base. By doing so you’ll set yourself apart as a professional and find yourself in more demand.