If you’re thinking of hiring an au pair or nanny, there are several things you should consider before making your decision. These factors include their salary, the hours they work, the background checks they will undergo, and the orientation they will receive.
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Background Checks
When choosing between au pair vs nanny, you’ll want to conduct background checks to ensure the person you hire is the right match for your family. While you may know a little about the caregiver you are considering, some resources can help you learn more.
You can choose to conduct your background check or have a professional do it for you. Depending on the service, the cost will vary. Typically, a basic background check starts at about $60.
Nannies aren’t always paid full-time, they are often paid for their services. Most nannies work a regular day shift and are scheduled as needed.
An au pair is a person who comes to the United States for twelve months. They live with the host family and provide childcare. Many of these workers have been trained in child care and can help teach your child about different cultures.
Hours of Work
An au pair is a young foreign woman who comes to the United States to live in a host family’s home. She is paid for living expenses and provides child care. Typically, an au pair will stay with a family for about a year.
Au pairs come to the United States to study, learn about the host country’s culture and interact with the locals. They usually work part-time in exchange for room and board. Those with more experience can be hired to work full-time.
Nannies are usually experienced, childcare workers. The nanny’s role is to provide care to children of all ages. A nanny may help with the child’s meals, tidying up, and laundry. A nanny is paid a salary to work a certain set of hours. Often, a nanny will be required to have a degree in early childhood development and may be a union member. A nanny typically works between 40 and 70 hours per week.
Whether you are looking for a nanny or an au pair, you will need to know what they do. You can find out more by consulting with a nanny or au pair agency.
The hours an au pair and a nanny will work are based on your needs. Some families require full days of care, while others want a few hours a day. It’s important to have flexibility in your schedule, especially if you have a long commute.
An au pair can work up to 45 hours a week. In addition to your work hours, you are allowed to take one weekend off a month.
Salary
The salary of an Au Pair and a Nanny depends on several factors. One is the experience of the nanny. Nannies typically have more experience than au pairs. Depending on the country where the nanny is located, the nanny’s salary may be higher than the Au Pair’s.
While an Au Pair and a Nanny are dedicated childcare providers, they have different responsibilities. An Au Pair helps the child learn new skills. A Nanny provides childcare to some children at one time.
Au Pairs are required to attend a 32-hour training course. In addition, they must provide $500 towards a college education. Lastly, an au pair must be able to speak conversational English.
Au Pairs are typically paid a stipend, which is not considered a real wage. However, they do receive monthly pocket money. It is also worth noting that the nanny’s salary may be lower than the au pair’s stipend.
Socialization or Orientation
When hiring an au pair or nanny, you need to be careful. You want to hire a person who can provide trusted adult care. Often, you want someone who shares your parenting philosophy, and you can trust their abilities.
Au pairs and nannies can offer a wide range of benefits to families. They can help children learn about a different culture. They can also help with household chores.
Many families opt to use an au pair program because they can give their children a cultural exchange. An au pair works as a childcare provider and acts as a consistent presence. Children who feel secure with adults are more likely to play, explore, and learn.
Au pairs work for one year. During that time, the family receives pocket money and room and board. The au pair may also travel with the family.
Cost
A good nanny or au pair can help you balance work and family. Nannies can provide extra hands, legs, and arms for your family. However, nannies and au pairs are not all created equal. You must choose carefully.
While it is true that both nannies and au pairs are a great way to care for your kids, you want to make sure you hire the right one. If you’re planning on hiring a nanny, ensure the nanny has a long-term commitment. And, if you’re looking for a live-in nanny, you need to have an open and honest conversation about your needs and desires.
Both nannies and au pairs can provide physical and intellectual stimulation to your children. Nannies can also introduce your kids to different cultures, which can help them develop a sense of identity. Au pairs can also teach your kids a new language.
But before you hire a nanny or an au pair, be aware of the cost. The standard rate for a nanny is around $300 per week, and a live-in nanny can be anywhere from $26,000 to $35,000 per year.