Deciding Whether to Hire an Au Pair

There seem to be a significant amount of rules with hiring an au pair.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Au_pair

But if you can keep all of that straight and you are OK hiring someone from a foreign country for a contracted amount of time, then I think it would be a good cultural experience for your kid(s).

Personally - I didn't want anyone to "join my family" which is the expectation of an au pair. Plus, they have to have some educational experience while in America and that would not have worked for my job schedule when my daughter was that age. I needed someone available during traditional working hours.

I also thought about it getting an au pair but not until my son is at least 3. I think for a child who is younger you need an experienced nanny. Most of the au pairs are young girls who want to travel to another country, take some classes, go out etc. You really need to make sure they have an experience with children and love them. Beside, you need to calculate all the fees you have to pay for an au pair. And what happens if you don't like them? That said, if your child is older and you find an amazing au pair, I think that it will be great!

http://www.mamapedia.com/search?query=live+in+nanny

That question has been around a long time on this site. Try the above link ;)

Au pair sounds stereotypically young and attractive. No way would I invite such into my home. Nanny sounds mature and experienced. That's who I would hire.

I don't have personal experience, but I think it's a great idea if you need someone to live with you. Victoria P is right, they are young girls that come to study and experience our culture, so you have to be flexible to that and there are rules on their hours etc.. but I do think it can be a great experience for everyone. One thing to consider too, is how well does your child handle change? Because an au pair can only be contracted for one year, then you must get another one and that means the family must readjust again (easy for some kids, but not all). Of course, they is no guarantee that a (local) nanny will stay with you multiple years, but, something to consider anyway. Good luck!