Comparing In-Home Childcare Options
The Difference Between Nannies and Au Pairs
We must realize that the choices we make in regard to childcare will affect our entire family. Many parents prefer in-home care. Whether you choose to have an au pair or a nanny should be based on your specific needs and preferences. What works for the neighbors may not work for you. A situation that offers peace of mind and allows your household to run smoothly is a goal that any in-home childcare arrangement should meet.
There are distinct advantages to employing nannies or au pairs, depending on your criteria. How much money are you prepared to spend, when you need childcare, and how long of an employment relationship are you hoping to have with your caregiver? These factors and more should be considered as you make your decision.
Au pairs are from foreign countries and tend to be young, energetic, well educated, and bilingual. This allows you to expose your children to another culture, and au pairs are usually attractive to children—a grown up who can keep up with them. Often children will form a bond with an au pair similar to that of an older sister. Au pairs will travel with you and are able to work flexible hours. As with many things, there is a downside. Au pairs are allowed to work with a family for one year only. While they can work flexible hours, the number of hours they are allowed to work is mandated by the placement agency and based on guidelines from the U.S. government. Also, because they are young, employers must be prepared to shoulder certain responsibilities. When the caregiver is homesick or physically ill, they often turn to the employers for support. Their young age can mean that they have maturity issues or other problems that are prevalent in teens/early twenties the world over (eating disorders, poor relationship decisions, etc.). Since this person lives in your home, these possible maturity issues can have a daily effect on your children and household. Also, the transition period is variable. Personal adjustments need to be made—getting to know the new family they live with, potential dietary changes, and other cultural issues. Placement agencies offer local support groups; however, you must be willing to nurture your au pair while expecting her to nurture your children.
Nannies are usually American, and live-out nannies typically already live locally. They can, and usually do, stay for longer than one year and the only limits on their schedule are those they set. In addition, nannies tend to be more negotiable about household responsibilities. The most glaring downside to a live-out nanny is regarding promptness. Because they do not live with you, they face the commuting issues of any other employee. Nannies will face traffic and weather problems that are out of their control, and their punctuality has a direct impact on yours. References are vital in establishing someone's dependability.
Agencies are often able to provide you with the opportunity to personally interview a broad selection of nannies that meet your individual criteria. Working with an agency will allow you to interview young nannies as well as more mature candidates who often have more childcare experience and more easily obtainable references.
There are several common issues that must be considered when choosing either a nanny or an au pair. Be sure you are comfortable speaking with the placement agency. Open and frank conversations allow the agency to learn some of the "little things" that facilitate the placement. Are you comfortable with the background screenings they conduct? Can they run a ‘Child Abuse and Neglect' screening? What additional information can they furnish? Do they have a guarantee policy? What is the time limit, and how many replacement caregivers will they provide? A variety of costs need to be considered as well. Are the fees competitive in your area? Think about the total cost. Agency fees, weekly salaries, travel expenses, and other benefits are all important factors in making your decision.
When looking for in-home childcare, keep in mind that you set the standards. An au pair or nanny can be a fantastic childcare solution for your family, but only if you are willing to take the time to evaluate what you need and what you are willing to offer. Evaluate your situation, then choose an agency that takes your criteria seriously, who is honest with you, and who provides follow-up service. Your children will thank you.
