National Nanny Training Day Comes to Nannypalooza

This year I am very happy to coordinate National Nanny Training Day. This day was started by my friend and frequent collaborator Lora Brawley of NannyBizReviews.com. She has been a crusader for many years for the nanny industry to set standards for caregivers. In her blog post from 2011 she set forth the idea of creating a day that nanny agencies, support groups, individuals and the whole community would come together for a nationwide training event. 

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FACT: Training and education of caregivers is one of the most important factors associated with the quality of the child care they provide. This is especially true of caregivers who are not associated with a professional organization like NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children). 

Take a minute to really think about that. It’s pretty amazing that investing a couple of hours a few times each year can have such a powerful effect on how well a nanny does her job. It’s also pretty amazing, in a shameful way, that we as an industry haven’t demanded that basic and ongoing training be a requirement for working as a nanny. We’re the only segment of the greater childcare industry that hasn’t stepped up and set standards for our caregivers. - See more at: http://nannybizreviews.com/2011/09/nanny-rights-responsibilities/#sthash.wxjbHlkl.dpuf 

But NNTD is not only about training. It is about increasing the visibility of nannies and the quality care they can provide. It is about including nannies in the larger early childhood education community. This is why NNTD is always scheduled during the Week of the Young Child. WOTYC is organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. It's purpose is to highlight that the early years are supremely important for children. And that we as a nation should make sure we are focused on meeting the needs of children and their families in these important years. 

National Nanny Training Day has been a huge success. It is the single largest training event for nannies that has ever been held. It has accomplished many of its goals and hopefully will continue to grow. 

It has also come to be even more than what Lora originally envisioned. Which is why it is a perfect fit with Nannypalooza and the work we do. NNTD is about providing access to training and building community. Most events are very affordable, inclusive and provide quality instruction and offer up new ideas. 

I am thrilled to coordinate the efforts this year. Soon we will begin to list cities that will host events. And more details are sure to come. But don't wait for someone else to plan an event. If you believe in quality nanny care now is the time to volunteer to organize an event in your community!! Contact me for more information. suedowney@nannypalooza.com