There are many types of childcare to consider when thinking about hiring an extra set of hands. Some families find that a Mother’s Helper is a good option, while others decide a regular babysitter is better. Still others decide that a professional nanny is the right choice. Another popular option, especially in a weak economy, is to hire an AuPair. While many families shy away from this option due to a lack of information or the relative absence of this kind of childcare provider in their immediate social circle, there can be many benefits to hiring an AuPair as opposed to a traditional nanny. Of course, on the flip side of that coin there can also be negative aspects to hiring an AuPair. For a better idea on whether it’s a good choice for you, educate yourself on what to expect.

First and foremost, most AuPairs are not professional childcare providers. The majority are simply young women, and occasionally men, who have some childcare experience babysitting or with younger siblings who are looking for a cultural experience abroad. For this reason, it is far more practical to hire an AuPair for slightly older children, and to stick with an experienced baby nanny for infants. While the cost of a baby nanny is likely much greater than the cost of maintaining an AuPair, the amount of experience and confidence both the family and the childcare employee will have is far worth it in the end.

That being said, the lack of professional experience can make an AuPair more of a fun addition into the family than an employee. Children will have the experience of bonding with an older person that is closer to their own age than Mom and Dad, and may form sibling-like relationships with the AuPair. For those looking to expose their children to new cultures or even new languages having an AuPair can be a valuable experience for your whole family. In fact, since the average term of an AuPair is only one year, many families cite one of the hardest aspects as saying goodbye after a year of strong bonding, especially for the children. Therefore, a nanny may be a better choice for any family looking for long term stability.

That being said, whilst most AuPairs are respectful and helpful, there can also be instances where the AuPair might be a negative influence on your children, especially a young person with little regard for your house rules. This does not mean the AuPair is a bad person, it is likely a side effect of being in a strange country with strange customs for an extended time period- for the first time in the young person’s life. The best way to avoid such a mishap is by working with a trusted AuPair or nanny agency to get a well-screened candidate. Otherwise, the family may feel they have an extra ‘child’ to take care of, instead of an extra nurturing adult.

Finally, the cost benefit of hiring an AuPair is appealing to many families. The average nanny pay is far greater than the small stipend of spending money most AuPairs are awarded. Instead, AuPairs are generally compensated with room and board. An AuPair is also expected to complete far more domestic chores than a nanny. While a nanny may agree to help out around the house, this is likely to result in an increase in the nanny pay. The real costs of maintaining an AuPair may be hidden in things like increased electric bills, grocery bills, or internet and phone bills. Remember an AuPair will be a member of your household for his or her term of stay, so thoroughly consider whether or not your family is willing to make the necessary adjustments to invite such a guest into your home.

By: Steve Lampert

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