How to become a babysitter, nanny or childminder?
There are different possibilities to work in childcare: you can either work on a more flexible basis as a babysitter, in a family's home as a nanny, or in your home with several children as a childminder. Here you can read about the requirements you need to meet to find the right job.
Have a heart for children
If you are interested in working with children, it is important, that you fundamentally enjoy this kind of work. You should be caring, patient and trustworthy. Childcare also means being able to work independently. Responsibility and organisational skills are essential qualities for a job in childcare.
Work flexibly as a babysitter
As a babysitter, you look after the children at their families' homes. Depending on the families' needs, this can be on a regular or irregular basis. Sometimes parents also require adequate care for their children at short notice. This can either be for a few hours during the day or in the evening. If you are looking to stay flexible with your time and earn money on the side, then a babysitting job is the right thing for you.
An educational training is not necessary for this. However, we recommend you to attend a babysitting course (e.g. at the ÖJRK).
Good to know!
Young people must be at least 15 years old to create a profile as a babysitter on Babysitter24.
Work as a nanny
As a nanny or manny, you look after the children at the families' homes and also help out in the household. Generally, you will be working with a family on a regular and long-term basis. You also take on educative tasks and have pedagogical responsibility. This makes you an important attachment figure for the children.
There is no statutory training for this type of childcare. However, you can qualify by attending a childcare course, for example at the BFI, WIFI, or offered by private providers.
Looking after children full time as a nanny or childminder
As an alternative to day care or crèche, parents can have their children looked after by childminders. As a childminder, you are self-employed and determine your own hourly wage. The children are part of your family's everyday life, and you provide a welcoming and child-friendly environment.
If you intend to work as a childminder, you need a permit from your competent district administrative authority. In most of the federal provinces you have to prove that you have completed a pedagogical training, e.g. the training for childminders. In addition, you are advised to attend continuous training courses.
