Why we chose an au pair for our full-time childcare (as a working mom of two)

[@jannam3204]

Thanks so much for sharing. I had a similar experience with separation in pregnancy, emergency c section and traumatic birth + NICU stay (even in the same hospital was rough enough especially since I planned a birth center birth). Glad both our babies are ok! I’ve been thinking of getting an Au pair eventually bc I do have a spare bedroom but only 1 kid so not sure. Getting by with minimal child care as long as I can 😊

[@readyfrombirth]

Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry that happened to you too, it was not at all how I hoped the birth would go (I was planning a vbac with midwives) and was instead incredibly traumatic. I'm very glad to hear that your baby is ok now! What happened to your separated partner? Did he attend the birth? There are definitely a lot of expenses associated with an au pair, I think the math only makes sense if you have more than one child and need full time hours (they can work up to 45 hours a week). But, as I explained in the video, the benefits have been very real and worth it and I'm so glad we made the investment ❤️

[@palloviromero1201]

Thank you so much for this helpful information! I'm currently a full-time software engineer, and I think I'll be interested in exploring this option when my family grows. I have a couple of questions: How long did the process take from applying for an au pair to having one start working with you? Do they need to live in your home, or could they stay in a nearby rented studio? Also, do you need to find a new au pair each year? If so, how did your kids adjust to the changes in their caregiver? Thanks again!

[@readyfrombirth]

So glad you found it helpful! I think I'll make another video explaining all the practical details, I've already gotten a lot of questions about it! They recommend allowing about two months between matching with your au pair and having them start, this allows time for the agency to secure the visa and flights. They do have to have a room in your home/on your property, unfortunately I don't think you would be able to put them up in a rented space elsewhere because it's regulated as a "cultural exchange" by the US government. They're like an exchange student living in your home, who also cares for your children. They also do have the option to renew for a second year with you, which is what we did! Our au pair goes home in December, so I'll know more about the kids reaction after that! Our daughter has known her her entire life, almost two years, and they are very close. It is going to be hardest for her I think.