Being a nanny before nursing school?

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Hi everyone,

This is kind of a pointless post but I can't decide what to do. I am 24 years old and just moved to a new city (expensive) and was offered a job working with young children with autism (ABA therapy) paying okay money. I will be able to scrape by with my salary but will not have too much left over after paying rent and groceries. I also have to use my car throughout the day which I do not like even though they pay me for gas. It would also look good on my resume. I was also offered a nanny job where I will be paid a lot more, will not need to use my car, and I would have extra money to spend on things I want (crossfit gym, saving up for school, etc.). If i took the nanny job, I would want to volunteer at a hospital as well to build my resume. I know it's stupid but I also don't like telling people that i'm a nanny and not having an actual job when they ask me what I do. I just wanted your opinions on this. What would you guys do???

I am hopefully starting my ABSN this Jan. or next summer, so I would only be at these jobs for a year at the most. Thanks for your responses :)

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I would honestly take the higher pay. Not exactly in a situation where I could say no to more money. Who cares what other people think? If you are making enough money to live comfortably, do what's best for you. They're not the ones who will have to live with your choices. Good luck!

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Thanks so much for the response :)

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I did nannying, it's a great way to save money. I could have either gotten a job at walmart for 40 hours a week at 8 and hour, or work 50 hours a week at 10 bucks an hour. Go with the money (IMO) and volunteer at the hospital!

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Specializes in Trauma, Teaching.

Anyone who has raised small children, knows full well that being a nanny is a "real job". IMO, there is nothing more important than our children. Take the job you want, not the one you think you should do. Absolutely nothing wrong with taking the higher paying job and being able to put some money aside.

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I'm with the others, follow the money. You can always volunteer at a hospital, clinic, etc. Also dealing with kids all the time makes it easier to remember developmental milestones which is always a favorite for tests in pediatrics. As far as real jobs go there is a simple test; does it pay real money? I have worked retail, waited tables, and babysat there is no shame in being a Nanny.

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I've worked as a professional nanny for 18 years, mainly specializing in newborns. It's an awesome job, and now I'm at the top of my game I get paid very well. However, it's been a long career and I'm ready for a change even though I'll lose out financially to start with. I recommend nannying especially if you want to work with children in your nursing career. It takes patience, intelligence, imagination, love and endless energy to be a good nanny. In my opinion, the same skills as you'll need as a nurse. So it's all valuable experience and the fact it pays better is a bonus!

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Thanks everyone!!! You're responses are very helpful, and definitely right!

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