Nannies
Nannies care for children in private households, supporting parents by meeting children's physical, emotional, intellectual, and social needs. Responsibilities include meal planning and preparation, laundry, organizing play activities and outings, and discipline. Nannies work directly in family homes, often on a full-time or part-time basis.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against nannies and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves a mix of structured and flexible activities. A nanny might prepare breakfast and pack lunches, supervise homework, organize outdoor play or educational activities, handle laundry and clothing care, and prepare dinner. Days often include managing multiple children's schedules, addressing behavioral issues, and planning age-appropriate outings. Evening and weekend responsibilities vary depending on the family's needs and the employment agreement.
Who this work suits
Holland code SAC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy this work if you're drawn to social interaction and building relationships with children and families. You probably appreciate creative problem-solving and bringing artistic or imaginative elements to activities, from planning outings to designing engaging play experiences.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $40,300 | $47,340 | $56,040 | 1,350 |
| Washington | $37,460 | $41,680 | $44,770 | 4,340 |
| Massachusetts | $37,330 | $40,900 | $47,920 | 13,140 |
| Colorado | $36,990 | $40,750 | $46,260 | 13,310 |
| California | $37,600 | $40,020 | $46,320 | 52,780 |
| Oregon | $35,620 | $38,650 | $43,620 | 5,240 |
| Vermont | $36,420 | $38,030 | $42,330 | — |
| New York | $35,420 | $37,590 | $43,730 | 44,020 |
| New Hampshire | $30,950 | $37,080 | $39,580 | 2,820 |
| Hawaii | $32,050 | $37,030 | $42,950 | 1,870 |
| Rhode Island | $31,930 | $36,940 | $38,290 | 1,800 |
| Connecticut | $35,730 | $36,660 | $38,370 | 12,020 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Child Development Associate (CDA) — Council for Professional Recognition
- Certified Nanny and Childcare Provider (NCP) — US Nanny Association
- Certified Newborn and Infant Care Professional (NICP) — US Nanny Association
- Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) — National Early Childhood Program Accreditation
- Certified Professional Nanny and Childcare Provider (PNCP) — US Nanny Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against nannies and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 39-9011.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.