Hiring an Au Pair

[imunique]

I don't think Au pair is a good idea, maybe all you have to do is to replace your current nanny with someone else who is both hardworking and able.

 

[topcatny]

As a follow up, we decided to go with an au-pair. We have a 19 yr old from Sweden getting prepared arrive in the US next Monday and we pick her up a week from Friday.

I have spent the last few weeks getting the house ready for the change. Our kids still don't know that their current babysitter will soon no longer be watching them. My wife has made some hints to the kids but we'll see how they handle the whole situation. From the comments they made I think it will be ok.

The next year will certainly be interesting.

 

[acidboy]



....................................................... We have a 19 yr old from Sweden ...................................................................................
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The next year will certainly be interesting.

sorry dude, thats the only thing I read

 

[topcatny]

LOL!

Like I said previously, the nanny we employed for the last 5 years I still can not believe my wife ever agreed to hire. I think I will be alright. It'll still be interesting though!

 

[JohnGalt]

No sure how old your kids are, but be delicate - this person has been around 5 years, which I'm going to presume is most of their lives. While they will be ok, it may be difficult for them to adjust to the change.

Please keep the thread updated. We have a live-out nanny that we are very happy with, but wouldn't discount the idea of an au pair in the future.

Spoiler: Warning: Spoiler!

and don't forget to post pics

 

[Wallcloud]

I find this thread fascinating. I certainly like the idea of au pair but I would be reticent to have a young woman staying in my home. I dont need that kind of problem in my life. I am certain it can be done without...issues, but I would hesitate to put myself in that position.

 

[topcatny]

My kids are 8 and 5. We have asked innocent questions to the kids about getting a new babysitter and neither seem bothered by the idea. I think my oldest is looking forward to it and has an idea that something will happen. Either way, this was going to be the babysitters last year. Next year both are in school for the full day and our needs/hours change and we would be changing anyway. We are just pushing it up by 8 months or so. I am sure there will be times they miss her though.

Most aspects of my life involve me dealing with women and the drama they cause. My current Nanny has caused more than her fair share over the last couple of years. I'll keep you posted how things go.

 

[acidboy]

8 and 5? they'll be fine.

 

[topcatny]

Update

The au pair has been her for 7 weeks and we couldn't be happier.

She has had an interesting experience so far. She was here 8 days and then hurricane Sandy hit and we had no power for 9 days. My mother in law then stayed with us for 10 days because her house was flooded and she is still not able to move back in. She took it all in stride and helped out tremendously.

The idea of having another person, particularly a teenager, living with us was our biggest concern. It has not been an issue at all so far. She eats with us and watches TV with us and we don't mind at all. But she is also developing her own social life. She has a friend from home that is also an au pair 5 miles from here and they have started going out and exploring the area and New York City during their time off.

I think we got exceptionally lucky with the person we chose. The kids love her and so far she seems anti-drama. Hopefully, that will continue

 

[sns23]

I would rather take care and raise my children myself.

 

[topcatny]



I would rather take care and raise my children myself.

Well, thanks for the insight, you've added a lot to this discussion. I can assure you that even though my wife and I both work we are raising our children and are very actively involved.

 

[CDFS]



I would rather take care and raise my children myself.

Often it's difficult to do both at the same time.

 

[tropics]

au pair pics or GTFO

 

[Bakes11771]

^ +1

Also, I'm moving back to LI shortly. Maybe I should meet her? We went through at least 20 au pairs/babysitters growing up.

 

[topcatny]



au pair pics or GTFO

^ +1

Also, I'm moving back to LI shortly.  Maybe I should meet her?  We went through at least 20 au pairs/babysitters growing up.

Aww hell no !

She came to a family wedding her second week here. She was seated at a table nearby with my 30+ yr old nephew and his girlfriend and a group of their friends. My youngest fell asleep in my arms so I ended up just sitting at my seat for most of the wedding. I watched the guy next to her hit on her most of the night. The protective father side of me was not happy..I got a glimpse of what my life will be like in 10 yrs. No way I am introducing her to any of you!