• Is a Newborn Care Specialist the same thing as a Baby Nurse or Night Nanny?

While Newborn Care Specialists are often referred to as baby nurses, only licensed nurses can use that term. Night nannies typically do not have as extensive and specialized training as a NCS. Often, night nannies work under the guidance of the parents, while a NCS is able to work independently.

• What is the typical schedule of a NCS?

The most common request is for overnight care, which allows the entire family to optimize nighttime sleep. Many families are interested in care for 3-7 nights/days per week for up to 16 weeks. My shift minimums are 6 hours for daytime care and 8 hours for overnight care.

• Do you offer sleep training services?

When working as a NCS, I am happy to set up a healthy sleep environment and routine to promote sleep for the entire family. By setting up healthy sleep habits during the newborn phase, you can often decrease the need for later sleep training.

I do have limited availability for sleep training or virtual consults to troubleshoot sleep issues for older infants.

• Why do you require a retainer?

Due to the short term nature of my work, and being self employed, I can not guarantee my availability without a retainer. It is common to have inquiries from several clients with overlapping needs. In order to reserve your time slot, I require a retainer that will be applied during the final stage of the contract.

• When should I contact you to reserve services?

Yesterday! But seriously, there is currently high demand for services, so it is best to reach out as soon as possible. I am often booked out months in advance. I recommend reaching out at least 3 months before you anticipate needing care, if possible.