The Differences Between Having An Au Pair, Nanny And Babysitter

It is not easy to balance work and family life. If you want some free time, you may have considered hiring someone to help take care of your children. But who is best suited for the job? What is the difference between an au pair, nanny and babysitter?

We usually use the words au pair, nanny and babysitter without distinction. But they are not exactly the same thing. Each of these jobs has important differences from each other, even though they all have to do with caring for children.

Before you consider the costs, you need to know the differences between these roles and decide which service best suits your needs. Then it’s time to look for the best person for your kids. Every family needs a specific type of childcare.

Nanny: a full-time employee

Nannies are employed to work according to a schedule. This means that they work regular hours. This is stipulated by an agreement and they must comply with the labor laws of each country. Therefore, their salary must be in line with or exceed the country’s minimum wage.

With nannies, you can establish a fixed work schedule. Their job is mainly to take care of, look after and entertain the children. But they will be a constant presence in your child’s life and education.

A skilled nanny is also capable of taking care of an infant. It is a good idea to hire someone with special training for this particular job. For example, someone who studied child care or who has been a nurse or assistant nurse.

For a limited time, choose a babysitter

Unlike nannies and au pairs, a babysitter usually works temporarily at specific times. They are the person you call when you have to go somewhere on a errand and need someone who can look after the children. Sometimes an emergency can occur and you have to leave them at short notice. Babysitters usually work for short periods, so you pay them by the hour.

Their job is only to look after and entertain children for a limited time. Or, if the children are asleep, they will stay with them until you get home.

Usually young girls and teenagers are babysitting. This is because you only need them for a short time at a time. This works well to combine with their schooling and studies. The most important characteristics of the babysitter should be that he or she is responsible and credible.

Au pair: Useful in several ways

An au pair usually comes from another country and usually combines this job with studies. They usually look for this type of work to acquire language and cultural skills in a safe way.

Because of this, you can hire them for a longer period. They can generally work during the times when they are not studying as well as during the summer and the holidays. But many are willing to be with you for up to a year.

They do chores at home and take care of children in exchange for food, accommodation and a small salary. Because they will live in your house and home, they will become family members. Because of this, you can ask the au pair for help with several different tasks.

Of course, you have to remember that they are not slaves. They need their free time and you both have to agree on what tasks are included in the duties. They can not work all day, every day.

You may have doubts about bringing an au pair into your home. Living with a stranger is a big step. But it also provides great benefits. It is very economical and offers unique opportunities for everyone in your home.

The whole family can learn a new language. They can practice it every day in real, everyday situations. The best way to learn a language is by talking to someone whose mother tongue is it.

It is also a good opportunity to learn about different cultures and traditions. In this way, it also entails an educational component: children learn to respect and value diversity.

Take a look at your particular situation

As I said, it is important that you are clear about exactly what you need before choosing one of these services. Each family is unique and has different circumstances. Depending on these, you can decide if you need a babysitter, nanny or au pair.

The main difference between these professions is how long they work and how they are organized. However, there are many things you need to keep in mind.

The most difficult decision will be to choose the right person to take care of your children. Above all, you want to be sure that he or she is well prepared for the job, responsible and that the person is committed and reliable.