Erica Harris

Verified

Erica Harris

Verified

Newborn Care Specialist

10 years of experience

5.0

Broadlands, Virginia

Erica Harris

Verified

Newborn Care Specialist

Broadlands, Virginia

10 years of experience

5.0

About
Services
Reviews (1)
FAQs
Social media

About me

My newborn care philosophy focuses on delivering comprehensive and compassionate support to both newborns and parents. My primary aim is to foster a nurturing environment where families feel empowered to excel in their new roles. Ultimately, my approach provides personalized, educational, and non-judgmental guidance, emphasizing safety, emotional stability, and collaborative relationships.

Education

Certified Newborn Care Specialist (2020)

Certified Birthing Doula (2020)

Certified Postpartum Nutritionist (2024)

Certification and training

Postpartum nutrition (2024)

AADP Holistic Health Practioner (2023)

SSS Pediatric Sleep Consultant (2023)

Birthing Doula (2020)

Newborn Care Specialist (2018)

Newborn Care Specialist (2020)

SSS 90 day Accelerator Business Workshop (2023)

Supporting Neonatal Resuscitation (2020)

Postpartum Doula (2019)

CPR, First aid,AED,BLS (2024)

Breastfeeding Counselor (2020)

Memberships and affiliations

NCSA

Stella

Summer’s Sleep Secrets

Newborn Care Solutions

Credentials

NCS

Specialties

Birth and Lactation Birth Assistant Birth Doula Breastfeeding Support Caring for Special Needs Children Childbirth Education Hypnobirthing Method Infant Care Labor Doula LGBTQ+ Multiples Natural Birth Natural Childbirth Newborn Care Newborn Prep Overnight Newborn Care Postpartum Care Postpartum Doula Care Premature Infants Sleep Consultant Water birth

Languages

English

Service introduction

As a dedicated newborn care specialist, I offer comprehensive services designed to support families during their most precious and vulnerable times. My expertise includes short and long-term assignments, both domestically and internationally, ensuring that newborns receive consistent and nurturing care regardless of location. Whether it's a brief trip or an extended stay, I am committed to maintaining a high standard of care around the clock, providing 24/7 availability to address the unique needs of each baby. For families requiring extra support, I offer the option to stay with the baby at the client's home while parents travel, ensuring continuity of care and peace of mind. This service is ideal for parents who need to be away for work or personal reasons but want their child to remain in familiar surroundings with a trusted caregiver. I also specialize in date night and weekend care, allowing parents to enjoy much-needed time off while knowing their little one is in capable hands. My approach is centered on creating a nurturing environment where newborns thrive. From feeding and diapering to soothing and developmental activities, I prioritize the well-being and development of each child under my care. I collaborate closely with parents to understand their preferences and routines, ensuring a seamless integration of my services into the family dynamic. With a background in early childhood development and years of hands-on experience, I bring expertise and compassion to every assignment. My goal is not only to provide exceptional care but also to build trusting relationships with families, offering guidance and support as they navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood. Whether based locally or traveling across borders, I am dedicated to delivering personalized care that exceeds expectations. My commitment extends beyond basic caregiving to encompass holistic support for both baby and family, promoting a nurturing and harmonious environment where everyone can thrive. For families seeking a reliable and experienced newborn care specialist, I am honored to offer my services, ensuring that each child receives the attention and care they deserve from day one.

Packages

24 Hour/Overnight Care

4/7 Care Package This service provides round-the-clock newborn care, including feeding, diaper changes, sleep support, and developmental guidance. * Duration: 24/7 support (up to 24 hours per day with breaks as needed) * Duties: * Full care for newborn: feeding, burping, diapering * Sleep schedule establishment and support * Lactation support or formula feeding assistance * Tracking baby’s milestones and offering guidance * Baby’s laundry, sterilizing bottles, and nursery organization * Monitoring baby’s health and well-being * Pricing: * Hourly rate: $40 - $60 per hour (depending on experience and location) * Weekly flat rate: $5,600 - $8,400 * Monthly flat rate: $22,400 - $36,000 (discounts may apply for long-term contracts) Overnight Care Package For parents seeking relief during nighttime hours, the NCS would care for the baby overnight, allowing parents to rest. * Duration: Typically from 11-15 hours per night * Duties: * Feeding (breastfeeding or bottle) * Diaper changes * Settling baby back to sleep * Sleep training assistance if needed * Logging sleep patterns and feedings * Pricing: * Hourly rate: $40 - $50 per hour * Nightly flat rate: $440 - $600 (depending on length of shift) * Weekly flat rate: $3,080 - $4,200 Additional Services (Optional Add-ons) * Postpartum Support for Mom: +$250 per day * Awake Care: $60 per hour Terms & Conditions: * Minimum contract of 2 week for 24/7 care and 5 nights for overnight care. * 50% deposit required upon booking, with balance due weekly. * Cancellation policy: 3 weeks notice required for cancellation, or a fee of 50% of the agreed amount may be charged. These prices are adjustable depending on the specific needs of the family and the specialist's level of expertise.

$40.00

USD Per hour

Ratings and reviews

Average

5.0

# of Reviews

5.0

September 19, 2024

Erica was an absolute lifesaver during the first six weeks of both of my children's births. As a newborn care specialist, she didn’t just help with the day-to-day care of the babies; she also educated me as a new mother, easing my anxieties in those overwhelming early days. She taught me everything from proper swaddling techniques to understanding my babies’ feeding cues and sleep patterns, all while being incredibly patient and reassuring. What stood out most was her ability to tune into my needs as a new mom. She recognized when I needed rest, emotional support, or just a little confidence boost. Erica’s approach was gentle and non-judgmental, creating a safe space for me to ask questions and learn at my own pace. Her presence helped me feel empowered, and her guidance has continued to influence the way I care for my children. I truly can’t recommend Erica enough for any new parent. Erica quickly became more than just a newborn care specialist; she is now considered family. Her warmth, expertise, and unwavering support made those early weeks so much easier, and we couldn't imagine those moments without her. If my husband and I were to have more children, we would undoubtedly want Erica's help again. She brought so much peace of mind to our lives, and her influence continues to guide how we parent today.

- Amanda M.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Newborn Care Specialist the same as a night nurse?

while both roles focus on newborn care, a night nurse often has formal medical training and may handle more health-related tasks, while a Newborn Care Specialist typically focuses more on non-medical aspects, like sleep training and overall newborn care routines.

What does a Newborn Care Specialist do?

A Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) is a professional trained to care for newborns, typically from birth to around 3 months of age. They offer support to new parents, helping them adjust to life with a newborn. Their responsibilities can vary but generally include: Newborn Care: Providing specialized care such as feeding, changing diapers, bathing, swaddling, and soothing the baby. They monitor the baby’s health, growth, and development. Sleep Training: Establishing healthy sleep patterns for the baby, including creating a sleep schedule and teaching self-soothing techniques. Parent Education: Educating parents on newborn care, including feeding methods (breastfeeding or bottle-feeding), diapering, bathing, and recognizing signs of illness or discomfort. Support for Breastfeeding: Offering guidance and support for breastfeeding mothers, including helping with proper latch techniques and troubleshooting common breastfeeding issues. Emotional Support: Providing reassurance and support to parents, particularly first-time parents, as they navigate the challenges of caring for a newborn. Light Household Duties: Some NCS professionals may assist with light household tasks related to the baby, such as sterilizing bottles, doing the baby’s laundry, or keeping the nursery organized. Night Care: Often, NCSs are hired for overnight shifts to allow parents to rest while they care for the baby during nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Their goal is to help parents feel more confident and competent in caring for their newborn while ensuring the baby is well cared for in those early, often overwhelming, weeks and months.

Why are newborn care specialist so expensive?

Newborn Care Specialists (NCS) tend to be expensive due to several key factors: Expertise and Specialized Training: NCS professionals are highly trained in infant care, including sleep training, feeding techniques, and managing common issues like colic or reflux. Their specialized knowledge and certifications come at a premium. Demand and Supply: Newborn care is a critical time for parents, and many families want expert help. However, there is a relatively limited supply of highly qualified specialists compared to the demand, driving up prices. Long, Unusual Hours: NCS often work overnight shifts or long, demanding hours to provide around-the-clock care for infants. Their willingness to work at night, weekends, and holidays increases the cost. Custom, Personalized Care: They offer tailored, hands-on support, including creating sleep schedules, teaching soothing techniques, and sometimes even managing household tasks related to the baby. The personalized nature of the work means fewer clients but more in-depth care per family. Short-Term Engagements: Since their role is usually temporary (focused on the first few weeks or months of a newborn's life), the higher rates compensate for shorter contracts. Location: In areas with a higher cost of living or where there’s a high demand for premium services (such as large cities), the rates for NCS will naturally be higher.

What is the difference between a doula and a newborn care specialist?

A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support to families during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period, focusing on the well-being of the mother and family as a whole. A newborn care specialist, on the other hand, is specifically trained to care for newborns, offering guidance on feeding, sleep, and infant care techniques, often working overnight or for extended hours to help parents adjust to life with a newborn. While both offer support, doulas focus more on the overall family, and newborn care specialists concentrate on the baby’s needs.

How soon should I book my NCS?

It's a good idea to book your Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) as early as possible, ideally during your second trimester. NCS professionals can be in high demand, especially in certain areas, so booking early ensures you secure someone who fits your needs and schedule. Some parents even begin researching and interviewing NCSs as soon as they confirm their pregnancy. By booking early, you also give yourself time to discuss your expectations, schedule, and any special considerations with the specialist.