As a parent, it’s only natural to want the best and most qualified caregiver for your child. While certifications or specific training aren’t required to become a nanny in the U.S., spotting one (or a few) on a caregiver’s résumé can offer extra peace of mind and meaningful indicators that a nanny takes their role seriously and is continually investing in their craft.
The world of nanny certifications is wide and, admittedly, a little confusing. From CPR and first aid to newborn care, sleep training, and special needs support, there’s a lot out there—and not every certification will apply to every family or situation.
At Hello Nanny!, we’ve reviewed thousands of candidates and know what actually counts when it comes to building trust. We’re breaking down 20 nanny certifications you might encounter—what they mean, when they matter, and why they’re worth considering.
Are you actively hiring, but struggling to find quality candidates? Our Job Advertisement Service will help you tap into our extensive network of experienced candidates to find support that fits your needs. List your job with us today.
20 Nanny Certification to Know
While certifications aren’t mandatory to become a nanny in the U.S., they can offer an added layer of reassurance to families, especially for families who have a specific need (think: a child with sensory challenges or family philosophy centered around RIE). Whether it’s a deep knowledge of infant sleep science or a strong foundation in child safety, certain credentials can elevate a nanny’s profile and help families feel more confident in their hiring decisions. Below, we’re breaking down TK certifications and trainings that nannies may pursue, along with what they mean, when they’re worth considering, and how to think about them in context.
1. CPR and First Aid Certification (Infant, Child & Adult)
Why it matters:
This is the gold standard of nanny certifications and quite frankly, a must for any parent who is entrusting another adult to care for their child. In fact, we require all of our nannies to be CPR and First Aid certified before joining our nanny network—yes, it’s just that important. CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and first aid training ensure your nanny knows how to respond in an emergency—from choking incidents and allergic reactions to cuts, burns, or even cardiac arrest.
What to look for:
Make sure the certification covers infant, child, and adult CPR (some courses separate them). The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association are both trusted providers, and many local hospitals and community centers also offer in-person or blended classes. These certifications usually need to be renewed every two years.
Good to know:
While CPR/First Aid certification doesn’t guarantee a nanny has ever used these skills in the field, it does show they’re taking their responsibilities seriously and are prepared to respond in a crisis.
Related: 11 Standard Nanny Benefits You Didn’t Know
Why it matters:
NCS-certified nannies have specialized training in the first 12–16 weeks of a baby’s life—think feeding, swaddling, building safe sleep habits, and navigating developmental milestones.
What to look for:
Look for programs like the Infant Care Training Academy or Newborn Care Specialist Association. While not required, an NCS credential signals experience, professionalism and a desire to work with the youngest of babies in the newborn stage.
Is this right for you?
For families looking for extra support during those first bleary-eyed months of baby’s life, a nanny who is NCS certified may be a great option. Obviously, if you’re well past this stage and don’t plan to return, this certification is likely not necessary for you.
3. Sleep Consultant Certification
Why it matters:
Before you became a parent, we bet you underestimated how much time you would actually think about your child’s sleep. Are they getting enough? Are they getting too little? How can I stop those middle-of-the-night wake-ups? If these questions cross your mind and you’re in the thick of all things sleep, hiring a nanny who is a certified sleep consultant can bring a structured, evidence-based approach to your home. Nannies who are certified sleep consultants understand all things baby and toddler sleep, common sleep challenges (and how to tackle them), building safe and healthy sleep habits, and troubleshooting sleep issues.
What to look for:
Certifications from organizations like Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting, the Family Sleep Institute or the Center for Pediatric Sleep Management. Bonus: They often train in gentle, responsive methods that align with your family’s values.
Good to know:
There’s a wide range of sleep consultant certification programs out there, so it’s worth doing a little homework. Ask your candidate why they chose their specific training and whether it was taught by a credentialed expert. Their answers can give you helpful insight into their approach and values.
4. Early Childhood Education Certificate
Why it matters:
ECE-certified nannies understand the developmental, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of young children—and how to support learning through play, structure, and age-appropriate activities.What to look for:
Certificates may come from community colleges, universities, or accredited training centers. It’s especially helpful for families with toddlers or preschoolers looking to build a strong learning foundation at home before embarking into a more formal school system. For parents of older kiddos, having a nanny who is ECE-certified can mean more enriching, developmentally appropriate activities that support your child’s learning and growth—right at home.
5. Lactation Consultant or Breastfeeding Support Training
Why it matters:
Any new mom who’s ever tried to breastfeed a baby knows the incredible challenges that can come with nursing, especially if this is your first rodeo. Which is why a nanny with breastfeeding support training can be an incredible asset for new moms. They can help with overcoming common challenges, provide tailored support, and offer guidance on best latching strategies, positioning and milk expression. Beyond that, certified lactation support can help new moms achieve breastfeeding success, help mom reduce breastfeeding pain and ensure baby is getting enough milk.
What to look for
Seek out credentials like CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor) or IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants), the latter which is considered the gold standard for lactation consultants.
Hot tip: If you want more support but don’t know where to start, many lactation mothers turn to the Lactation Network. They help connect families to lactation experts, whether it’s in-home, in-office or online, all covered by insurance and tailored to your breastfeeding needs.
Related: Nanny Responsibilities: A Comprehensive Overview for Parents
6. Water Safety Certification and Infant Swim Training (ISR)
Why it matters
Even if your family doesn’t spend a significant time around pools, lakes, or beaches, this certification will add an extra layer of security and confidence that your nanny knows the ins and outs of water safety in case you’re ever in a situation that requires this.
What to look for
Look for certifications like American Red Cross Water Safety, YMCA lifeguard training, or ISR (Infant Swimming Resource).
7. Montessori Certification
Why it matters
A nanny trained in Montessori methods will emphasize independence, respect, and hands-on learning. This educational approach focuses on child-centered learning and is often taught beginning with toddlers-aged children. What to look for
Certification from an accredited organization like AMS (American Montessori Society) or AMI (Association Montessori Internationale).
8. RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) Certification
Why it matters
RIE-trained nannies foster autonomy and connection through intentional, observation-based caregiving. RIE is a philosophy developed by Magda Gerber that treats infants as their own individuals with their own capabilities and preferences, ultimately encouraging minimal intervention by grownups and allowing infants and babies to develop and grow at their own pace.
What to look for
Completion of RIE Foundation training course (a 60-hour intensive course all about RIE core fundamentals), RIE Parent-infant guidance class, or similar coursework through the official RIE organization.
9. Child Passenger Safety Tech (CPST)
Why it matters
If your nanny will be driving your child, switching car seats between cars or carpooling with children, this training ensures they know how to install car seats properly and follow safety best practices.
What to look for
Certification through Safe Kids Worldwide or a state-recognized CPST program.
10. Special Needs Care Certification
Why it matters
Whether your child has a medically diagnosed condition or just needs extra support, this training ensures your nanny is equipped with the tools and empathy to provide personalized care.
What to look for
Coursework or certifications related to autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, sensory processing, or early intervention strategies. We recognize special needs is a unique spectrum so finding a caregiver who understands your family and child’s unique needs and challenges will pave the way for a meaningful partnership built on trust and understanding.
11. Nutrition or Pediatric Feeding Certifications
Why it matters
From navigating food allergies to encouraging healthy eating habits (and a healthy relationship with food), this training gives nannies a solid foundation in child nutrition and feeding techniques and approaches.
What to look for
Board certified specialist in pediatrician nutrition (CSP) is a certification for registered dieticians (RDs) to who specialize in pediatric nutrition. A CSP certification requires documented practice experience and successful completion of an exam.
12. CDA Credential (Child Development Associate)
Why it matters
A CDA shows a deep understanding of early child development and education, learning environments, and professionalism, making it one of the most comprehensive credentials in the early child development field. Typically, CDA credentials means these educators are experienced working with kids specifically 0-5 years old.
What to look for: A valid CDA credential requires formal early childhood education training, professional work experience, a portfolio, passing an exam and a verification visit. Those seeking a certificate must apply throughThe Council for Professional Recognition.
Related: Nanny Contracts: Everything You Need to Know
13. Doula Certification
Why it matters
A nanny who’s also a certified birth or postpartum doula can offer unmatched support to new parents—emotionally and practically—during the earliest weeks of baby’s life and through the postpartum phase.
What to look for
Certification Requires training through a reputable doula organization like DONA International, CAPPA, or another reputable doula training organization.
14. Trauma-Informed Care (TIC)
Why it matters
Trauma-informed nannies are trained to understand the signs of emotional distress and respond with calm, compassionate strategies that help children feel safe.
What to look for
Certificates from programs focused on trauma in early childhood, such as those offered by Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) certification, Early Childhood Trauma Informed Care Certificate (ECTIC), or state mental health organizations.
15. Baby Sign Language Certification
Why it matters
Baby sign language can reduce tantrums and ease frustration before your child is verbal, helping them express needs like “milk,” “more,” or “tired.”
What to look for
Training from established programs like Baby Signs, Signing Time Academy, or ASL-based courses taught by certified educators.
16. Language or ESL Certification
Why it matters
A multilingual or ESL-certified nanny can help your child become bilingual, improve their English language skills, or support dual-language learning from a young age—an advantage for brain development and future communication skills.
What to look for: TESOL, TEFL, or bilingual teaching certificates, especially if your family is raising a child in a multilingual home.
17. Positive Discipline Certification
Why it matters
This training helps nannies manage behavior in a calm, respectful, and consistent way—building emotional intelligence and cooperation rather than relying on more traditional forms of punishment like time outs.
What to look for
Completion of a certified Positive Discipline course (like from Yogi Patel’s Positive Discipline and Training and Coaching or the Positive Discipline Association) or similar programs rooted in gentle/conscious parenting practices.
Related: Having a Nanny When You Work from Home: Tips to Make It Work
18. Pet First Aid & CPR
Why it matters
If your household includes pets, this training equips your nanny to handle basic emergencies, which will keep both kids and animals safe.
What to look for
Certifications from the American Red Cross, Pet Emergency Academy, or local veterinary programs.
19. International Nanny Association (INA) Credential
Why it matters
Offered by the International Nanny Association, this credential demonstrates professionalism and knowledge in child development, safety, and ethics.
What to look for
Proof of passing the INA Nanny Credential Exam and commitment to ongoing education in the nanny field.
20. Professional Nanny Certification
Why it matters
A general professional certification shows your nanny has invested time into learning best practices across safety, development, and communication.
What to look for
Certification from programs like the US Nanny Association.
Related: 10 Essential Things to Do Before Baby Arrives
How to Vet Nanny Certifications
Given the sheer amount of nanny certifications and training available, it’s well worth your time to do your home work because not all certifications are created equal. It pays to ask a few follow-up questions when a nanny lists a credential:
- Was the course taught by a licensed or certified professional?
- Is the certification from a recognized institution or just a quick online module?
- How long did the training take, and was there a hands-on component?
- Did the certification require an exam?
- Is the certification time-limited? If so, does it require your nanny to complete ongoing training or renewal exams to stay current?
Don’t hesitate to ask your candidate why they chose a specific training or what they learned from it. A great nanny won’t just flash a certificate—they’ll be able to explain how it’s shaped their approach to care and why it was important for them to pursue.
Which Certifications Matter Most (And When)?
Certifications can be incredibly useful and give you peace of mind, but their value often depends on your family’s specific needs. For example:
- Do you have a new baby at home? A nanny with Newborn Care Specialist training or breastfeeding support can be a game-changer.
- Raising a toddler who struggles with sleep? A sleep consultant certification might help bring more rest to everyone. However, ask yourself if you actually need a nanny who has a sleep consultant certification, or if it makes more sense to hire a sleep consultant to work with you and your caregiver.
- Spending time around water or do you own a pool? Water safety or ISR is a must.
Think of certifications as tools that enhance your nanny’s caregiving ability. You don’t need every tool in the toolbox—just the ones that support your unique parenting season. And, remember that parenting seasons do change. What works for you right now may not be realistic in the future. Approaching your caregiver choices with flexibility and an open mind will be beneficial to you in the long term.
Why Nanny Credentials Can Be Helpful—But Aren’t the Whole Picture
Certifications can give you peace of mind, especially if you’re hiring a nanny for the first time. They show a willingness to learn, a sense of professionalism, and often a passion for working with children. But paper credentials aren’t the only—or even the best—indicator of a great caregiver.
We’ve placed incredible nannies who don’t have a long list of formal certifications. What they do have? Years of experience, glowing references, and an intuitive ability to connect with families and kids.
Ultimately, certifications are one part of the puzzle. Trust your instincts, dig into your candidate’s real-world experience, and look for that magic blend of warmth, capability, and compatibility. Ultimately, that’s what makes a great match.
FAQs About Nanny Certifications
What certifications should a nanny have?
There’s no one-size-fits-all list, but some of the most valuable certifications for nannies include CPR and First Aid, Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) training, sleep consulting, early childhood education (ECE), and water safety. Depending on your family’s needs, additional credentials like special needs care, positive discipline, or Montessori training might be worth considering. For Hello Nanny! we find that CPR and First Aid certifications are table stakes and we don’t accept nannies into our network who don’t comply.
Ultimately, it’s less about collecting certificates and more about finding a nanny whose skills and experience align with your family’s lifestyle and values.
Do nannies have certifications?
Some do, and some don’t. There’s no required license to become a nanny in the U.S., which means certifications are optional, but we do often encourage career nannies in our network to pursue their passion. Many professional nannies opt for ongoing training to deepen their expertise, stand out in a competitive market, and better serve the families they work with.
At Hello Nanny!, we vet every candidate thoroughly and take their certifications, experience, and interpersonal strengths into account.
How do I check CPR certifications for a nanny?
Ask to see a copy of their CPR and First Aid certification, which can be shown either digitally or in person. Make sure the certification is current (they typically expire every two years) and that it’s from a recognized provider like the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. You can also contact the issuing organization to verify its validity, if needed.
Are nanny certifications required?
No—there are no legal requirements for nannies to hold certifications. That said, certain certifications (like CPR/First Aid) are often considered best practice and highly recommended by agencies and families alike.
How long do nanny certifications last?
It depends on the type of certification. CPR and First Aid certifications generally expire after two years, while others—like early childhood education certificates or trauma-informed care training—may not have expiration dates but could require ongoing education to stay current. Always ask your nanny when their certification was completed and if it’s still valid.
What’s the difference between nanny credentials and experience?
Certifications validate a nanny’s formal training, while experience reflects their real-world application of skills. Ideally, your nanny has both: hands-on experience caring for children and relevant certifications that show initiative, professionalism, and commitment to learning.
Should I require my nanny to get certified?
It depends on your family’s priorities. Some families prefer their nanny to arrive with certain credentials already in hand, while others are open to supporting continuing education after hiring. If you’re working with Hello Nanny!, we’ll help you determine what makes sense for your family and can even connect you with candidates who meet those expectations.
Are you actively hiring, but struggling to find quality candidates? Our Job Advertisement Service will help you tap into our extensive network of experienced candidates to find support that fits your needs. List your job with us today.
