Understanding the roles that nurture, educate, and support your little ones.
In-home childcare is never one-size-fits-all. The right support depends on your family’s needs, lifestyle, and your child’s developmental stage. But with so many titles floating around—nanny, governess, baby nurse—knowing the difference can feel overwhelming.
At FOYF & Home, we believe clarity is care. The more you understand the distinctions, the more intentionally you can create the support system your family truly needs. Here’s a breakdown of the roles that serve little ones—and what each brings to the home.
👶 Baby Nurse (Also Called a Newborn Care Specialist)
When you need: hands-on, around-the-clock support in the early months
A baby nurse specializes in the first 12–16 weeks of a baby’s life, offering essential care during the most delicate and demanding season. Often overnight, and sometimes 24/7, they are calm, experienced, and attuned to both baby and mother.
What they do:
- Feedings, burping, swaddling, and sleep training guidance
- Diapering, soothing, bathing, and safe sleep setup
- Support for recovery, lactation, and postpartum adjustment
- Establishing healthy routines and tracking feeding/sleep patterns
Ideal for: first-time parents, families with multiples, or anyone seeking rest and confidence during the newborn stage.
🧸 Nanny
When you need: consistent, nurturing support throughout the week
A nanny is a longer-term childcare provider, often working full-time in your home. They bring structure, consistency, and warmth to your child’s daily rhythm, while supporting the family unit as a whole.
What they do:
- Daily care: meals, naps, playtime, outings, school pick-up/drop-off
- Light household help related to the child (laundry, tidying, prep)
- Create and follow developmental activities and age-appropriate routines
- Become a trusted, loving presence for both children and parents
Ideal for: working parents, busy households, or families who value continuity and calm in their childcare.
📚 Governess
When you need: educational support + gentle structure at home
A governess is more than a tutor—they are a private educator and mentor, often with a background in teaching or child development. This role supports academic growth, etiquette, and enrichment, especially in homes where education is a high priority.
What they do:
- Assist or fully manage homeschooling or distance learning
- Supplement schoolwork with custom enrichment activities
- Model manners, social etiquette, and responsibility
- Travel with families and adapt learning to new environments
Ideal for: families with school-aged children, international households, or parents seeking tailored academic and developmental support.
Final Note
Each of these roles supports your child and your home in beautifully different ways.
Whether you need nurturing care, educational guidance, or newborn expertise, choosing the right kind of help is what turns support into harmony.
At FOYF & Home, we help you staff intentionally—so every stage of your child’s life feels held, supported, and thoughtfully guided.
