au pairs

[somdmom]

Thanks for the input. I'll feel better using an agency since the girls are screened. My friends use Cultural Care and they are happy with them.

[fredsaid2]

Originally Posted by somdmom

Thanks for the input. I'll feel better using an agency since the girls are screened. My friends use Cultural Care and they are happy with them.

It can be a great experience for both sides. Definitely use an agency and be prepared for the expense. Take some time to write down your expectations of duties and schedule. Do you want them to prepare meals, do family laundry, light housekeeping, drive your children to school/activities? How do you envision scheduling the 8 hours per day they are available to you? The clearer you are (for yourself and them) as you go through the selection process, the better it will be once they arrive at your home. It’s difficult for both sides to amend the duties and schedule as you go. A family member has used them extensively for many years, good experiences outweigh the bad. Several Au Pairs stay in touch and even visit occasionally, they’ve become extended family. Good luck!