Au Pair Childcare

I like to keep up with the childcare options in my area.  It's amazing to see what is available out there.  From daycare centers to live-in nannies, and traditional babysitters to in home daycare--the prices and quality range as much as the differences in childcare.  I have noticed that, unlike people on the East Coast, the one childcare option that many people are not aware of, or educated on, is the au pair program.

So, what is an au pair you ask?  Au Pairs are foreign young adults who provide families with an extraordinary cultural experience through full time, live-in childcare.  Because they live-in the host families' home, they provide personalized care in the place where children are most comfortable--their own home.  No need to wake the children up early, no need to allow more time in the morning to get the children ready and run them to the sitter or the daycare center before work.  No need to take work off if the children are sick.  Sounds heavenly, doesn't it?!

Well, the perks don't end there!  With an au pair you have an extra adult in the home that can help out on date nights, emergency situations, etc.  They are available up to 45 hours per week and 10 hours per day.  They can even help out with light housekeeping that is related to the children.  And get this--the price of an au pair is the same, regardless of the number of children a host family has!

The au pair program is regulated by the Department of State, which provides guidelines and protection to both the host family and the au pair.  Au Pairs are screened and have extensive background checks, they are interviewed in person by a representative in their own country. The Host Families also are interviewed by a Local Area Representative and follow guidelines on the amount of hours an au pair can work and they the type of work they can do.  The Local Area Representative is within 60 minutes of each family and is there to provide support and activities throughout the year.

With all the benefits this childcare program offers, it's no wonder that I am amazed that so many people haven't ever heard of an au pair.  I've started this blog in an effort to not only educate people on the au pair program, but to give host families, au pairs, and Local Area Representatives tips that will make your au pair experience successful and memorable.  I will pull from my 10+ years of experience to provide ideas for activities the au pair can do with the children, nutrition tips, ideas for cultural exchange, things to do on holidays, and much more!  So join me as we explore the wonderful world of Au Pair Childcare!