A night nanny is a professional caregiver who provides overnight support to families with newborns or infants, focusing on non-medical tasks to ensure that both baby and parents get restful sleep[7].
- Feeding Support: The night nanny handles bottle feeding or brings the baby to the parent for breastfeeding, assists with latching or positioning, burping, and then soothes the baby back to sleep, allowing parents—especially mothers—to minimize disturbance and return to sleep quickly[1][3][7].
- Diaper Changing: Night nannies are responsible for changing diapers or soiled clothing, applying creams or powders if needed, washing soiled clothes, and ensuring the sleep area remains clean and sanitary[1][3].
- Soothing and Comforting: They soothe babies with techniques like swaddling, gentle talking, music, or touch, ensuring a comforting and safe sleep environment by monitoring for hazards (like loose blankets or pillows)[1][7].
- Sleep Routine and Safety: Night nannies help establish healthy sleep habits by maintaining consistent routines and monitoring the child’s well-being throughout the night[3][7].
- Light Baby-Related Chores: In addition to direct infant care, they often handle light housekeeping tasks related to the baby, such as cleaning bottles, doing baby laundry, and organizing the nursery[7][8].
- Communication with Parents: Night nannies maintain communication with parents about feeding schedules, sleep patterns, and any issues (for example, illness or changes in behavior) that arise during the night[1].
- Acquiring Supplies (if agreed): Some night nannies may obtain additional baby supplies or run quick errands, ensuring that parents are not interrupted overnight[1].
Night nannies usually work under parental guidance and do not provide medical care or handle clinical tasks: these are the responsibilities of night nurses or newborn care specialists with healthcare qualifications[2][5]. The night nanny’s presence allows worn-out parents to rest and recover, secure in the knowledge that their child’s needs are met throughout the night[7].
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