A Night Nanny or Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) is hired to provide expert overnight care for your newborn while allowing parents to get the rest they need. Their primary responsibility is always the health, safety, and well-being of your baby.

Appropriate Responsibilities

During an overnight shift, it’s appropriate to ask your caregiver to assist with tasks directly related to your newborn, including:

• Feeding (bottle feeding or bringing baby to the breastfeeding parent)
• Burping, diaper changes, and soothing
• Following safe sleep practices and healthy sleep routines
• Washing bottles and pump parts used during the shift
• Preparing bottles or formula
• Folding baby’s laundry
• Keeping the nursery organized and stocked
• Tracking feedings, diapers, and sleep
• Monitoring your baby’s well-being and communicating any concerns
• Providing education and guidance on newborn care, feeding, and sleep

What Is Generally Outside Their Role?

Because their focus is newborn care, Night Nannies and Newborn Care Specialists are generally not responsible for:

• House cleaning
• Family laundry
• Cooking meals
• Running errands
• Caring for older siblings (unless previously agreed upon)
• Pet care
• Deep cleaning or household organization unrelated to the baby

These tasks can take attention away from the caregiver’s primary responsibility—providing safe, attentive care for your newborn.

Setting Clear Expectations

Every caregiver and family is different, so discussing responsibilities before the first shift is essential. A clear agreement helps ensure everyone is on the same page and allows your caregiver to focus on what they do best: supporting your baby and helping your family get the rest and confidence you need during those first precious weeks.