Nannies and Au Pairs - a guide
Nannies
Nannies are professional childcare workers either qualified or
experienced who will care for other people's children in their (the
children's) own home. They may be 'live-in' or 'live-out' (daily)
nannies. Two families may share a nanny and this arrangement must
be registered with the local authority.
Nannies are employed by the family, who will be responsible
for drawing up terms and conditions of employment, tax and national
insurance. There are specialist agencies that will help with all
aspects of employing a Nanny; from finding the right person to
managing legalities and paperwork. Always ask for references.
Pluses: they can be well qualified; your
child can build a strong relationship with one carer; the child is
at home; you can provide the toys and meals you want; flexible
hours; children of different ages can be together.
Limitations: can be limited space and scope -
especially if the nanny does not use outside activities; there are
no training requirements; no 'official' check with a local
authority; expensive; some paperwork involved - tax and national
insurance.
Au Pairs
These are usually foreign students who will live in the family
home and help with light domestic duties and childcare on a
part-time basis in return for board and lodging and pocket money.
They rarely have childcare training, though they might have some
experience in looking after children. There are strict regulations
concerning hours of work and payment. Anyone interested in
employing an Au Pair should consult one of the specialist agencies
who will advise on regulations and arrange employment.