Over the summer months, many of us alter our childcare arrangements – nursery closes for the summer holidays; children move up to school; childminders, au pairs or nannies move on.
Over the coming weeks we will discuss how to manage that change – from welcoming a new au pair into your home to choosing a new pre-school or nanny.
This week, we look at why you may consider live-in care to meet your childcare needs.
Should you consider a live-in nanny?
Some nannies, especially those who are newly-qualified or who live far away from your home, will consider live-in. If you live in a desirable location, such as central London, or a more rural setting, this is an option well worth considering. Live-in carers will generally be more flexible with hours, as they will not have a long commute to and from your house.
Some will also consider a Monday to Friday live-in option, as this gives them the freedom to save money on accommodation, but retain their own independence and not be a full-time member of the family. Make sure that you make the carer’s room as welcoming and independent as possible from the rest of the family, for example, provide them with a television and enough storage space for their own belongings.
Many people consider a live-in nanny if they travel frequently for work or if they have a newborn. Make sure that you have firm guidelines for yourselves, the nanny and the children which give your all-important carer enough free time and peace and quiet.
Are you looking for a nanny? Find one in your area now.
What is an Au Pair?
Au pairs are young people who are eligible to work or study in the UK under either the Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) or EU legislation. For 2018, countries eligible under the Youth Mobility Scheme are: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Monaco, Hong Kong, the Republic of Korea or Taiwan. EU nationals are also eligible to work as au pairs under the scheme and some nationals of other countries, eg Romania and Bulgaria can work under special arrangements.
An Au Pair is expected to work 25-30 hours per week, with pocket money of £70-95 to cover this. They should be offered free accommodation and all meals within the household.
Au Pairs are primarily in the UK to learn English and to participate in cultural exchange, should have some childcare experience and be willing to help with light housework. Au Pairs are not recommended for families with very young children or those who require long hours or a lot of help around the house.
Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Hiring an Au Pair
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