au pairs

somdmom

New Member
Does anyone have any thoughts about au pairs? I know families who enjoy having the live in childcare especially if they have a lot of kids or a baby.
Thanks!
 

Roman

Active Member
Does anyone have any thoughts about au pairs? I know families who enjoy having the live in childcare especially if they have a lot of kids or a baby.
Thanks!
I'd be weary having someone live in my house, but my opinion is based on the Glenn Close movie, "Fatal Attraction".
 

pelers

Active Member
Personally I wouldn't be comfortable having someone live with us like that. I'd feel like I always had to be on my best "we have company" behavior and wouldn't really be able to relax.

Though it would be nice to be able to run out in the evenings without having to worry about coordinating schedules with the hubby and arranging a sitter for short overlaps where neither of us is available. Plus the time it would save in the mornings, not having to get both kiddos ready and transported to daycare... /sigh.
 

Baja28

Obama destroyed America
Isn't au pairs french for "dirty little homewrecker"?
Huh? there's nuthin wrong with having an au pair. :shrug:
 

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Chris0nllyn

Well-Known Member
I actually met a German au pair last year, she leaves for Germany next week :(

She's one of the nicest people I've ever met, and minus the small language barrier, I'd have zero problem having her watch my children.
 

somdmom

New Member
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

New Member
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!
 
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