aupair.com

[cesoir]

Does anybody have any experience of getting an au pair through this website?

Is it a reputable way to find an au pair? What checks do I need to do if I choose to not go through any agency?

I've thought about getting an au pair but I've read that they can't look after the children for longer than 5 hours at a time, and that they cannot have sole charge of children under 2. And yet, I see lots of positions advertising au pair positions with toddlers.

Can anyone advise?

Many thanks x

There is no legal reason why you cannot leave children of any age with an Au Pair in your home, however an Au Pair is generally an untrained young lady/gent who are living in your home helping with the children in exchange for board, lodgings, pocket money (circa £80 per week) and the chance to go to language school to improve their English. Great for older children at primary school but absolutely not suitable for sole day care. That is a skilled job for a nanny or childminder.