What is a Newborn Care Specialist?
A Newborn Care Specialist is an individual trained and skilled in newborn care. Caregivers are more than just nannies, they know the ins and outs of newborn development and have specialized newborn training. They provide unique expertise in all aspects of newborn care, parental education, and support. Their job is to help nurture and care for newborns while providing guidance and education for the parents. A Newborn Care Specialist’s goal is to reassure new parents and help make the transition enjoyable. "Night nurse" and "baby nurse" are outdated terms for what we now call a Newborn Care Specialist, or NCS — people trained to give postpartum help to families. If someone is using the term nurse, they are legally required to be an RN. NCS’s are non-medical personal that will direct you to the appropriate resource such an IBCLC, CLC, Lactation Consultant, Pediatrician etc. if you have a question that is out of scope.
What is a Doula?
Like travel guides in a foreign country, birth and postpartum doulas help support new families through the life changing experience of having a baby! Today, a doula is defined as follows: a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. Countless scientific trials examining doula care demonstrate remarkably improved physical and psychological outcomes for both mother and baby. Doulas have a positive impact on the well-being of the entire family, while the main focus is on the primary caregiver & new baby(ies)
How do I know what type of services would best fit the needs of my family?
Many factors contribute to finding the right fit. I match best with families that respect my experience, are interested in learning everything from how many diapers to buy, to routines to reading babies cues. Have a busy lifestyle, multiple kiddos or would like someone to get in there & demonstrate a few ways it can be done? My expertise as an NCS, especially overnights are something to consider.
Budget is a factor, do you provide gift certificates?
Yes! After the family with the newborn/ infant has requested a free consultation, we decide we are a good fit, and services are booked, I am able to use Stripe to invoice the party that wishes to contribute to or cover the cost of my services. I am able to accept most major credit cards. Contact me to add services to your baby shower or sprinkle, Facebook and more!
“Do we have time to chat about baby with you during your shift?”
Of Course! Even on night shift, the first and last ten to fifteen minutes of the shift are generally reserved to speak with caregivers. Notes and info graphs are posted in the shared app, so everyone is able to stay on the same page. I welcome questions and look forward to supporting needs when I am on shift, and teaching caregivers what to do once I leave.
“My 3/4 month old only sleeps for 30 mins or is up every 2 hours at night, can you help?”
This is a common question. You are not alone! They are many factors that contribute to night waking / short sleep cycles. I am there to support the needs of the baby, as well as the rest of the family. While I prefer to work with newborns, I do have experience with supporting infants as well and will work with you to create a plan that works for everyone.
What is your cancellation policy?
A fifty percent non-refundable retainer of the anticipated contract is due upon booking. Shifts cancelled without 48 hours notice that can not be rescheduled at my discretion will be charged at fifty percent of the total shift fee. Due to the nature of this profession, I am typically unable to book another client and reserve time scheduled for your family. I respect your time, and I appreciate the same in return.