"Babysitter" vs "nanny"

Question

"Babysitter" vs "nanny"

Both 'babysitter' and 'nanny' are correct terms used to refer to a person who takes care of children. The choice between the two depends on the level of formality and the specific duties involved.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

You can use 'babysitter' when referring to someone who takes care of children on a temporary basis, such as for a few hours in the evening or during the day.

Examples:

We hired a babysitter to watch the kids while we went out for dinner.
The babysitter played games with the children until their parents returned.
She works as a babysitter on weekends to earn extra money.
The babysitter put the children to bed before the parents came home.
The babysitter is responsible for feeding the children and putting them down for a nap.

Alternatives:

childcare provider
childminder
sitter
caregiver
nanny

You can use 'nanny' when referring to someone who is employed to provide full-time childcare, often living with the family and taking care of the children's needs on a regular basis.

Examples:

The family hired a nanny to care for their young children while they were at work.
The nanny prepares meals, helps with homework, and takes the children to activities.
She works as a nanny for a family with three children.
The nanny is responsible for the children's education and well-being.
The nanny has a close relationship with the children she cares for.

Alternatives:

childcare provider
childminder
sitter
caregiver
babysitter

Answer 1

Babysitter

This is a commonly used term to refer to a person who looks after children for a short period of time, usually in the absence of the parents.

Answer 2

nanny

This term is also commonly used to refer to a person who takes care of children, but it often implies a more formal and long-term arrangement with a broader range of responsibilities.

"Babysitter" vs "nanny"

Babysitter

nanny

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