While there might not be an urgent demand for nannies in the United States, the consistent number of vacancies in nanny employment agencies across the country certainly calls for attention.
Today, let’s explore the world of house help and nanny jobs abroad for Nigerians in the US.
Role of a Nanny
The role of a nanny requires certain essential skills, including:
Childcare Experience
It’s important to have prior experience in caring for children, which includes tasks such as feeding, changing diapers, and putting children down for naps.
Patience and Kindness
Children can be unpredictable and occasionally challenging, so possessing patience and kindness to handle such situations with grace is crucial.
Good Communication Skills
Effective communication with parents, children, and other care providers is vital. This involves active listening, following instructions, and providing regular updates.
Organization
Keeping the household running smoothly is essential, which includes managing the children’s schedules, meal planning, and handling basic household chores.
Safety Awareness
A good understanding of child safety, including CPR and first aid, is important. Implementing safety measures within the home is also necessary.
Flexibility
Children’s schedules and needs can change rapidly, so being adaptable and able to adjust to evolving circumstances is a valuable trait.
Physical Ability
Being physically capable of meeting the demands of the job, such as carrying children, running after them, and being on your feet for extended periods, is essential.
Trustworthiness
Nannies are entrusted with the care of children, so being trustworthy, responsible, and reliable is of utmost importance.
Creativity
Children thrive on creativity and imagination, so being skilled at engaging them in fun and imaginative activities is a great asset.
Education
Having a basic understanding of child development and the ability to support children’s learning and development is highly beneficial.
Some of the house help and nanny jobs abroad for Nigerians in the US encompass a range of responsibilities, including:
- Supervision: Ensuring the safety and well-being of the children at all times.
- Childcare: Engaging in age-appropriate activities, playing games, doing arts and crafts, and assisting with homework.
- Meal preparation: Cooking and serving meals and snacks for the children.
- Housekeeping: Maintaining a clean and organized environment for the children, which may involve laundry and light cleaning.
- Transportation: Driving the children to school, activities, and appointments, as required.
- Education: Encouraging learning and development through educational activities, such as reading and engaging in educational games.
- Discipline: Providing guidance and setting appropriate boundaries for the children’s behavior.
- Health and Safety: Administering basic first aid, managing medication schedules, and following safety protocols.
Eligibility for House Help Jobs in the US
To be eligible for nanny positions in the US, it is important to meet certain requirements:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old to work as a nanny.
Legal Status: You must have a legal right to work in the United States, whether as a citizen, a permanent resident, or an individual with a valid work visa.
Education and Training: While there is no specific educational requirement for becoming a nanny, many employers prefer candidates with experience working with children and who have taken courses in child development, first aid, and CPR.
Background Check: Most employers will conduct a criminal background check to ensure the safety of their children.
Health: You must be in good health and physically capable of performing the tasks required of a nanny, such as lifting children, engaging in play, and bending down to their level.
Where to Find Nanny Jobs in the US
To find nanny jobs in the US, you can explore various platforms and websites:
Care.com: One of the largest online platforms connecting families with caregivers. You can create a profile, apply to jobs, and be hired directly by families.
Sittercity: Another popular platform that helps you find babysitting and nanny jobs in your area. You can create a profile, apply to job listings, and communicate with families.
UrbanSitter: Offers a variety of childcare services, including nanny and babysitting services. You can create a profile, apply to job listings, and be hired directly by families.
Nanny agencies: Several nanny agencies work as intermediaries between families and nannies, handling hiring, payroll, and tax issues, thereby allowing you to focus on your job.
Networking: You can also find nanny jobs through networking with friends, family, and acquaintances who may know of families in need of a nanny.
Type of Visa for Nanny Jobs in the US
To legally work as a house help or nanny in the US, Nigerian candidates need to obtain a valid work visa. Some suitable work visas for these positions include:
H-2B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign workers to enter the US temporarily to perform non-agricultural services or labor on a one-time, seasonal, peak-load, or intermittent basis.
B-1 visa: A non-immigrant visa for individuals traveling to the US for business purposes, including working as a house help or nanny for a foreign employer.
J-1 visa: A non-immigrant exchange visitor visa that permits participation in exchange visitor programs in the US, including au pair or nanny programs.
FAQs
Can a man be a nanny?
Yes, the male version is often referred to as a “manny.” Mannies are employed if nannies are not required.
How much does a nanny earn per hour in the US?
According to the Indeed platform, the average hourly wage for a nanny in the US is $20.53.
Conclusion
House help and nanny jobs abroad for Nigerians in the US are attainable.
According to IBISWorld, the US market for maids, nannies, and gardeners is currently valued at $30.9 billion, with a growth rate of 0.5% per annum.
This presents a promising opportunity for Nigerians looking to work as nannies in the US.
So, take the initiative and explore the possibilities that await you.