There are a handful of different people who can offer in-home care to your little ones.
But whats the difference between the various providersand how do you know which one you need?
What does an au pair do?
An au pair is a childcare provider who lives in your home.
Usually hailing from another country, au pairs are often the most affordable full-time childcare option.
(Their salaries are lower because the host family provides room and board.)
Communal living lends itself to meaningful bonds being formed between your children and your au pairand quickly.
Any issues with your au pair can be brought to, and mediated by, the placement agency.
If you only have one guest room, it will be their living quarters for at least a year.
At most, they will only be able to stay with your family for two years.
What does a nanny do?
Nannies are ideal for families who need frequent, long-term care on a regular schedule.
Your child can stick to a familiar environment and already-established routines while receiving one-on-one attention.
Youll need to deduct taxes from their pay and report all income and deductions to the government.
In some cases, you may even be asked to provide unemployment or healthcare benefits.
A nanny will expect yearly salary raisesand its customary to provide a generous bonus during the holiday season.
What does a babysitter do?
A babysitter is someone who provides intermittent, ad hoc childcare for your family.
They generally work fewer hours, and have other jobs or school commitments.
Your kids will get exposure to a variety of different personalities and activities.
Babysitters are part-time, get paid by the hour, and dont require any long-term commitment.
They offer you more flexibility and privacy than a nanny or au pair.
The cons:Babysitters are typically the least reliable of all childcare providers.
They are often in school or taking on other jobs to supplement their main source of income.
(Though it is possible.)
