FAQ
Clear answers
before you choose.
The questions caregivers ask us most, about format, access, exams, certification and what comes next. If yours is not here, email the team.
Most questions come down to three things: whether a course fits the experience you have, what you get access to, and how training relates to certification. You will find the answers below.
Ready to compare programs? See every course and its entry requirements on the training page, or answer six short questions on Where to begin.
Useful links from these answers:
- Free orientation course: So You Want to Be an NCS?
- CACHE qualification requirements and Nanny Stella
- Elite NCS and Master NCS
- Book a consultation with Tonya
- Affiliate program
Have a question not answered here? Email info@newborncaresolutions.com or see the contact page.
Who is the training for?
Our programs are designed for the professional postpartum and childcare provider, not for beginners. Foundational requires age 18 or older and prior professional experience working with infants. If you are new to infant care, start with the free orientation course, So You Want to Be an NCS?
What ages do the courses cover?
Our training is for Newborn Care Specialists, so the focus is birth to 4 months. The courses mention a little about older babies, but that is not the focus. Sleep Solutions and Respectful Care for Newborns, Infants and Toddlers are the courses that go beyond this age range.
What format is the online training?
The courses are online and self-paced, so you study when it suits you. You can reach them at any time on a computer, tablet or smartphone.
How long are Foundational and Advanced?
Foundational has 73 lessons with 12.5 hours of video. Advanced has 29 lessons with 13.5 hours of video. Both are self-paced.
How long will I have access?
Access depends on the program. Elevate includes 365 days of access. Each course page lists its access terms, and the education team can confirm them before you buy.
Is training the same as certification?
No. Course completion and professional certification are separate steps. Each program page lists its own requirements, assessments and fees.
Do I need to be certified to work as an NCS?
No. Currently there are no regulations that require anyone to be certified to work as a Newborn Care Specialist. Certification is an option, and it may help open doors for you.
Is there a final exam?
Yes, there is an optional final exam, with a fee. You need to pass it only if you want to become a CACHE certified NCS. The exam has 40 multiple choice questions and you get up to three attempts. It is not timed, but you must finish it in one sitting. It is online only. When you pass, your certificate is emailed to you.
Does the exam certificate expire?
No. The expiration date printed on the certificate is an internal date that CAPPA requires for people seeking CAPPA CEUs. Your testing certificate does not expire.
Can doulas earn CAPPA CEUs?
Yes. Foundational NCS is approved through CAPPA and qualifies for 16 continuing education units toward your ongoing certification.
How does CACHE certification work?
CACHE certification is entirely separate from our company. You complete the Foundational program (or Elevate, which CACHE has also approved for its training requirement), pass the exam and send us the required documents. Once we review and approve them, we direct you to Nanny Stella, the CACHE US authorized representative, who processes your request. Nanny Stella sets the certification fees. Check each program page for its certification route. This NCFE-accredited qualification is unregulated and not nationally recognized.
Is training available in Spanish?
Yes, for the two core programs. Foundational and Elevate each have a Spanish edition.
Is there a student community?
Yes. Once you complete a course with us, you are welcome to join our student community at no charge. Volunteer mentors, each with their own specialty, are there online to answer questions and guide you. Because they are volunteers, they cannot promise to be available at specific times.
Do you place Newborn Care Specialists?
No. Newborn Care Solutions is a training company, not a placement service. We have relationships with placement agencies, and the jobs they share with us go to students directly in our private Facebook group for students and mentors.
Do you offer in-person training?
Occasionally. From time to time we bring Foundational training to the public. Email the team to ask about upcoming events.
How can I work one-on-one with Tonya?
The Elite NCS and Master NCS programs include coaching, mentoring, in-depth education and one-on-one time with Tonya. Tonya and Todd also offer personal coaching. For a shorter session, you can book a one-on-one consultation with Tonya online.
Do you have an affiliate program?
Yes. Apply through the affiliate program page on the learning platform. Once you are approved, we email you the details.