Au pair versus nanny

Many families like the idea of the one-on-one care a nanny can provide, but the high cost is a big deterrent. In most communities in the U.S., nannies are cost-prohibitive for middle class families.

Disadvantages of hiring a nanny

• High cost and need for salary negotiations
• Lack of quality candidates
• Lack of a qualified agency in the area
• Lack of night or weekend coverage
• The hassle of verifying her legal work eligibility
• Absence of a back-up plan if she falls ill or quits
• No regulation or support from a third-party agency or staff member

Hosting an au pair can give you the one-on-one attention and in-home convenience that you want but without the high cost and other disadvantages of hiring a nanny. Compare au pair childcare to a nanny:

Value Comparison	Au Pair	Nanny
$350 weekly fixed cost (per family, not per child) An affordable fixed cost regardless of the number of children you have.		NO
Flexible scheduling option The ability to create your own childcare schedule week-to-week.		Varies
Consistent and rigorous screening process Knowledge that your childcare is provided within the context of a carefully government-regulated program.		Varies
Assistance with household duties An extra helping hand with kids’ laundry, meals and room pick-up.		Varies
A trained childcare provider Knowledge that your childcare provider has been recently trained in child safety, child development, and age-appropriate activities.		Varies
Year-long, local support The assistance of a local childcare coordinator (LCC) throughout your exchange year.		NO
Opportunity for cultural exchange Exposure to a new culture, language and way of life.		Varies
24-hour on-call service The ability to reach a staff member around the clock in case of an emergency.		NO

Another benefit to hosting an au pair? All au pairs meet strict requirements mandated by Cultural Care and the U.S. Department of State.