Why INA
by Kelly Smith
Many individuals in the nanny industry who are introduced to the International Nanny Association find themselves asking why join. “What is the benefit to me?” Each person has his or her own reason for continued support of the INA. Today, we are going to hear from Kelly Smith who has been a nanny for almost 10 years and an INA member since 2013. She shares her experience in hopes that it will both inspire others to join her in INA membership and encourage current INA members to share their story. Do you want to submit a blog to the INA? Fill out this simple form and we will be in touch.
My personal top 5 reasons why I joined the International Nanny Association and why I continue to stay a member.
Professional Development
I first heard of the International Nanny Association when I was looking for nanny specific education. At the time, I had already been a nanny for several years, worked in several different states as a live-in and all of my childcare education was daycare specific. I was looking to improve myself and become the best nanny that I could possibly be. When I found the association, I joined right away because there was a conference.
Community
In 2013, I went to my first INA conference. The entire experience was amazing. I met nannies who had been in the industry successfully for more than 15 years, nannies who were brand new to the industry, and nannies, like me, who had been around for a few years and had the desire to stay in this industry for as long as possible. I remain friends with many of those people, some of whom I now consider mentors and people who I look up to in many ways. For the first time in my life, I met agency owners, educators, and other industry professionals who have all come together to make this industry what it is now and support nannies in their mission to care for children.
Resources
There are several resources that I have personally taken advantage of, such as mentors, articles, exams, and classes.
Mentors – There is no substitute for experience. INA has a plethora of seasoned nannies as well as other industry professionals who are happy to share their insights on the industry.
Articles – These can be found at nanny.org and are on the recommended practices and industry standards for all roles in the industry
Exams and Assessments – The Basic Skills Exam and the Credential Exam. These two tests are designed to showcase your skills to potential agencies and families. I am very proud to say that I am an INA Credentialed Nanny.
Classes – Members have access to industry-specific classes and discussions through the Member Only Facebook Group.
Discounts
When you join INA you are automatically eligible for a conference discount as well as discounts on the Basic Skills Assessment and Nanny Credential Exams. In 2013, the top reason I joined the INA was to receive the conference discount. I knew I wanted to go to the conference, and it was $100 cheaper if you were a member. Membership was $45 so you saved $55 for being a member. Members also can get special offers from the INA Member Advantage Providers. These are companies inside and outside the industry who offer discounts to INA members.
Exclusive Job Board
I have been very fortunate that over the last few years, finding nanny positions have been fairly easy for me. Personally, I haven’t needed to go through the INA Job Board but I have always felt like it is a safety net if I ever I need it. You have to be an INA member to post a job so I know these jobs are from high-quality reputable agencies. I consider myself to be an educated professional nanny and want to work with professional companies.
Kelly Smith is an INA credentialed nanny with a passion for nanny specific curriculum planning. She has been in the childcare profession for approximately thirteen years total and a professional nanny for about 10 years. Kelly shares her curriculum planning tips as well as her personal views on the nanny industry on her blog The Planned Nanny.