Core principles families value
- Assent, dignity, and culturally responsive care.
- Teach skills (communication, coping) instead of suppressing behavior.
- Preventive strategies—shaping routines and environments thoughtfully.
- Caregiver coaching that fits daily life and values.
Important: Educational content only; not legal, clinical, or billing advice. Verify laws and titles locally.
Common professional pathways (alongside or beyond nanny roles)
Path A
Licensed Teacher (Early Childhood / Elementary)
- State licensure + supervised practice.
- Home-based early learning, pre-K readiness, executive-function supports.
Legal note: Licensure is jurisdiction-specific; use title exactly as permitted.
Path B
Reading/Phonics Specialist
- Structured literacy/phonics training; evidence-based decoding and fluency.
- 1:1 reading support that complements school curricula.
Legal note: Do not imply licensure unless licensed; represent credentials accurately.
Path C
Early Childhood Education (AA/BA/MA)
- Developmental frameworks; observation, play-based learning, scaffolding.
- Home routines that support language, self-help, and social play.
Legal note: Some roles (e.g., classroom) require additional certification.
Path D
Newborn Care Specialist / Postpartum Doula
- Sleep shaping, feeding routines, parent coaching in early months.
- Evidence-informed infant care and family stabilization.
Legal note: Titles and scope vary; avoid medical claims; follow local rules.
Path E
IBCLC / Lactation Support (referral & collaboration)
- Coordinate with licensed IBCLCs; reinforce family-approved plans.
- Support daily routines while respecting clinical boundaries.
Legal note: Only use protected titles when credentialed; defer to licensed care.
Path F
SLPA/COTA Aide (supportive roles via clinics)
- Carry-over practice under clinician guidance (speech/OT homework).
- Daily environmental supports for communication and sensory needs.
Legal note: Regulated titles; follow supervision and documentation rules strictly.
Path G
Behavior Pathways (RBT, BCaBA, BCBA)
- From entry-level technician to board-certified analyst with graduate training.
- Focus on assent, family partnership, and humane, skill-building support.
Legal note: Follow BACB® and state rules for supervision, titles, and records.
Path H
Child Life / Developmental Therapy / Play Therapy Adjacent
- Normalize procedures, build coping, and support developmental goals.
- Coordinate with clinical teams; use home routines to generalize skills.
Legal note: Many titles are protected; verify scope, training, and supervision requirements.
Why this matters for families
- Higher quality of daily interactions and learning time.
- Better continuity with school/therapies and fewer stressful transitions.
- Clear documentation and agreements that set expectations early.
Important: Titles, licensure, and scope vary by location. Confirm status with the caregiver and your jurisdiction.