Expecting a baby, whether it’s your first or your fourth, is an exciting time for a family. Once that baby arrives, however, parents can become overwhelmed and exhausted. If you’re expecting, or need an extra pair of hands to help you with your new bundle of joy (or their older siblings), it might be time to consider hosting an au pair.
For new and expecting parents, Au Pair in America (APIA) offers a special category of au pair child care assistance, called Infant Qualified. Specific experience is required to receive the Infant Qualified designation, making this unique group of au pairs the perfect child care solution for families with children from 3 months to 2 years old. Infant Qualified au pairs can care for children 3 months and older.
Read on for several reasons why expecting parents are choosing au pairs for their infant child care needs.
1. Tiny baby, big help
So. Many. Bottles. New parents are sometimes surprised by all the little tasks and chores that a new baby can bring. In addition to caring for your little one, Au Pair in America au pairs can help with household duties related to your baby. This can include preparing and cleaning bottles, washing baby’s laundry, and tidying up the nursery.
2. Get some rest
Ask any new parent what they crave most and you’re likely to hear “sleep!” By hosting an au pair, you’ll have the flexibility to craft a schedule that works for your day-to-day needs, whether that means getting to work, spending time with older siblings, or catching a few more Zzzzs.
3. We’ve got training and experience covered
New and expecting parents often ask about an au pair’s qualifications to provide child care for babies. Infant Qualified au pairs must have at least 200 hours of documented childcare experience with children under the age of two. Interested host families can view an au pair candidate’s experience, education, references, and more in their application.
Through our Orientation Program, every au pair receives training specific to infant child care, including instruction on American expectations around baby care. Topics covered include establishing routines for babies, feeding, soothing, bathing, and household safety. All Au Pair in America au pairs, including those who are Infant Qualified, take a course through the American Red Cross. After settling into their host community, all participants are encouraged to complete an Infant/Child CPR and First Aid certification program, paid for by Au Pair in America.
4. Dependable care
Getting ready to return to work after maternity or paternity leave? Whether you’re planning to head back to the office after your baby arrives, will be working from home, or will need an extra set of hands to help with your growing family, hosting an au pair means live-in child care that’s ready when you are. You won’t have to worry about the hassle of getting baby out the door to day care drop-off or finding extra coverage when your little one gets sick. Au pairs are here to help with all of life’s little surprises.
5. Personal attention
Babies require special care and attention. When you choose to host an au pair, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your child is receiving that one-on-one attention from their caregiver. Unlike group child care settings, your au pair can provide developmentally appropriate activities catered specifically to your child, with the ability to adjust to their needs as they grow.
Interested in learning more about hosting an au pair for your little bundle of joy?
