Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/353543
HVParent.com Q Hudson Valley Parent 27 Imagine, a live-in au pair to cook, clean and chauffeur your children! It may sound expensive, but is often the same price or cheaper than traditional daycare. Many agencies offer payment plans. The cost averages out to be about $350 per week. Choosing a babysitter Another alternative is hiring a nanny from an agency like Above and Beyond In-Home Care Concierge Services. Their sitters are screened and parents receive a profile, credentials and checkable references to ensure that families receive quality childcare. A big advantage to hiring a sitter or nanny is flexibility. Above and Beyond offers many different services, including full time or part time care, live-in or live-out sitters, short term or long term care, baby nurses, newborn care, emergency care, Doulas and occasional sitting. Making it work "When welcoming a new au pair into your home, always remember why you chose an au pair in the first place," said Jodi McCoy, area director at Au Pair Care. "As human beings, we all bring a certain story to the table and learning your au pair's story can be a great gift for your children." Having an au pair, nanny or sitter is like adding another member to your family. Many times, this person will become a "sister" figure to your children, forming a lifelong bond. It is important to remember your au pair is also an employee and there are certain expectations that you should have in place to ensure that everyone is healthy, happy and safe. Jennifer Colucci is a local mom and teacher who blogs about her 5 and 2-year-olds at HVParent.com Qualities and skills to look for in a babysitter 1. Dependable. Do they arrive on time? Do they have a reliable car or other means of transportation? No one wants to get dolled up for a night out only to find out the sitter cannot make it on time. 2. Friendly. Does your sitter have a good connection with your kids? Does she truly enjoy being with your children? 3. Responsible. Is your sitter paying full attention to the kids? Is her cell phone tucked away? It's important to select a responsible sitter so you're less likely to worry while you're out of the house. 4. CPR and First Aid Certified. Accidents are bound to happen. You need a sitter that can take action quickly. This isn't a "must have," but it is definitely a plus! 5 Previous experience. Are first time babysitters a risk you want to take? Experienced sitters are apt to take swift action during emergencies. 6. Creativity. Whether she's inventing wacky games to play the kids or thinking up festive meals, your sitter should be creative enough to keep the kids entertained for hours! 7. Patience. When dealing with needy children, patience is of the utmost importance.