One of the most cost effective options for many families is the au pair program, especially if you have more than one child. Au pairs are experienced, trained young people from overseas who come to the U.S. on a cultural exchange visa to provide up to 45 hours per week of live-in childcare. The average weekly cost of an au pair is $350 regardless of the number of children in the family. This includes the application fee, selection fee, program fee and the au pair's weekly stipend and works out to be just $7.80 per hour. The average annual cost for an au pair is $17,830, significantly lower than the cost of daycare centers, babysitters and nannies for families with two or more children.
Diane Salvo, Local Childcare Coordinator for Cultural Care Au Pair, who works closely with families in Newtown, Brookfield, Oxford and surrounding towns, says that families are budget conscious but are also looking at more than just the costs. "In this current economic climate middle class families are looking for flexibility as well as affordability. Cost conscious parents need to be creative with their childcare solutions as parents take on additional jobs or work longer hours."
Please contact me by calling 203-216-4654 for more information and discounts!
