Childcare Solutions - 3 Key Differences Between Au Pairs and Nannies

If the schedule restrictions and caregiver ratios of traditional daycare facilities are not quite what you are seeking in childcare for your little ones, an Au Pair might be the perfect solution for you. Often confused with traditional nannies, Au Pairs offer a unique relationship to most families. Here are three critical differences:

One - Cost

Wage differences are substantial, but not the only variable that makes an Au Pair a much more affordable option for most families. Since he or she lives with you under a cultural exchange program, the cost of their room and board is considered part of their wage. They can work up to 45 hours per week for the $195.75 weekly stipend. (Both type of agencies charge a fee for their services, so weekly pay is not the only cost.)

While a traditional nanny must be paid at least minimum wage (and good luck finding someone willing to work for that amount), they must also receive time-and-a-half for more than forty hours a week. In addition, you are required to calculate, file, and pay Social Security, Income, and Workman's Comp taxes quarterly. The hassle alone adds to the cost.

Two - Experience

A true "nanny" is likely to possess some type of childcare giver certification that may include first aid, special needs training, or other advanced childcare education. The same is not true for all Au Pair candidates.

The program is a hybrid cultural exchange/education/childcare support which brings international college age students to the U.S. for up to two years to live with a family, perfect their English, and attend some school. While it is possible to find candidates who have medical, teaching, or counseling backgrounds, most offer extensive babysitting experience as opposed to formal childcare training.

Three - Relationship

While a nanny is an employee (and may or may not live with you), an Au Pair comes to the U.S. to become a member of your family for the time they are here. As such, the relationship naturally takes on a less formal, more enriching role. Just as the he or she benefits from the exposure to American culture and opportunities, your family will benefit from the sharing of their background and knowledge. My toddlers could count and recognize colors in both German and English - not something I could have taught them.

The relationship is likely to last a lifetime. Ten years later, we still exchange emails and Christmas presents with our first Au Pair, who is now married and a mother herself.

If the idea of personalized childcare in your own home appeals to you, please consider hosting an Au Pair. For more information on how it really works, please sign up to receive my complimentary ten-page Insider Report on the authorized Au Pair program in the U.S.

From ezinearticles.com, By Kimberly Bates