How to choose the right care for your infant

Start with your baby's stage, not a job title

The first year moves in chapters, and each chapter asks for a different kind of care. Before comparing candidates, ask what your baby needs right now — and what they will need in three months.

• 0–3 months: a Newborn Care Specialist or baby nurse for feeds, weight, overnight care and gentle sleep training.
• 3–12 months: a Baby Nanny who carries the established routine into the day.
• 12 months and up: a Toddler Nanny for play, language, early learning and outings.

Decide on coverage before you interview

Be honest about where your household needs support. Many families discover that nights, not days, are where they are struggling.

• Nights only — often 5 to 7 nights a week for the first weeks.
• Live-in — one specialist in the home around your schedule.
• Rotational 24/7 — two specialists alternating 12-hour shifts, ideal for twins, preemies or recovery after a difficult delivery.

Questions worth asking every candidate

• How many newborns have you cared for, and for how long each?
• How do you track feeds, diapers, sleep and weight? May I see a sample log?
• Have you cared for a baby who was feeding poorly or slow to gain weight? What did you do?
• What sleep-training approaches do you use, and at what age do you begin?
• How do you work with our pediatrician's plan and our own preferences?

Look for temperament as much as experience

Years of experience matter — many of our most requested specialists bring 15 to 20+ years with newborns. But the right fit is also calm, patient and quietly confident. Watch how a candidate speaks about babies and about mothers in recovery. You should feel your shoulders drop.

Verify, then trial

Always check references directly, confirm background screening and CPR / infant first-aid, and begin with a short paid trial when possible. A good match usually feels right within the first few nights.