Contributed by Jennifer Kuhn, MPS, Executive Editor of Nanny Magazine
“Why should society feel responsible only for the education of children, and not for the education of adults at every age?” – Eric Fromm
Investing in professional development is investing in yourself. Show your current or prospective employers that you care about your career and are committed to improving your skills by making it a point to enhance your education and knowledge. Below are options to fit every budget and learning style to make getting started on the path toward professional development that much easier.
1. Never Underestimate the Power of Free
Sometimes it seems that the only thing standing in the way between you and your professional development goal is the money it takes to make it happen. Don’t let a limited budget hold you back from professional development opportunities. The library is a great place for boundless education for all. All you need is a library card and your learning potential is potentially endless!
2. Safety Training
So you took a CPR or First Aid certification course 5 years ago? Maybe that’s good enough, but maybe you should really think about brushing up on those potentially life-saving skills. Broach the topic with your MomBoss and DadBoss. They’ll likely be glad to foot the bill as an investment in their child’s wellbeing.
3. Electronic Learning
Technology is a beautiful thing. The Internet brings learning and professional development opportunities directly to you. Companies like Sitter Cycle offer prerecorded or real-time learning events on a multitude of topics relevant to childcare workers. Register for a webinar or distance education course and show your employers that you mean business when it comes to learning.
4. In-Person Options
Local classes, community college, and conferences such as Nannypalooza are great ways to combine learning and networking. Meet the leaders in the childcare industry in person and develop professional relationships with people who really understand the unique needs of a nanny. No room in your budget to travel? Register for a local child development course; your community college likely has a few classes offered each semester. The only way to find out is to check!
5. Nanny Schools
Though few and far between, certain educational institutions offer options specifically geared toward training nannies. Search for a nanny school near you and build your resume’s education section. Future employers will take you more seriously if you can demonstrate to them that you actually want to be a nanny and that you take pride in your career.
Jennifer Kuhn, MPS, is an Executive Editor of Nanny Magazine, the only magazine in the United States geared specifically toward nannies. Jennifer has a master’s degree in Publishing and worked as a nanny for four years.