As an au pair host family, one of the benefits is having an extra set of hands to help with childcare and household chores. However, when it comes to planning a vacation, many families are unsure whether or not they should take their au pair along. In this article, we’ll explore some factors to consider when deciding whether or not to bring your au pair on vacation.
Benefits of Taking Your Au Pair on Vacation
There are several reasons why you might want to take your au pair with you on vacation:
- Extra Help: An au pair can provide additional support during your trip by helping with childcare and other tasks.
- Cultural Exchange: Traveling with your au pair can be a great way to expose them to new cultures and experiences.
- Cost Effective: If you’re already paying for their room and board, taking your au pair on vacation may not cost much more than leaving them behind.
Reasons Not to Take Your Au Pair on Vacation
While there are certainly benefits to bringing your au pair along, there are also some reasons why you might choose not to:
- Privacy: Bringing an additional person along can make it difficult to have private time as a family.
- Scheduling: Your au pair may have other commitments or plans that conflict with the vacation dates.
- Burnout: Taking care of children while on vacation can be exhausting for everyone involved, including your au pair.
Tips for Traveling with Your Au Pair
If you do decide to bring your au pair along on vacation, here are a few tips to help make the experience a success:
Communicate Your Expectations
Before you leave, be sure to discuss your expectations for the trip with your au pair. This includes everything from their responsibilities to their schedule.
Plan Together
Involve your au pair in the planning process. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that their needs are being taken into consideration.
Give Time Off
While it can be tempting to have your au pair work throughout the entire trip, it’s important to give them some time off as well. This will help prevent burnout and ensure that they enjoy the vacation as well.
Conclusion
In the end, whether or not to take your au pair on vacation is a personal decision that depends on your family’s needs and preferences. While there are certainly benefits to bringing them along, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. If you do decide to take your au pair on vacation, be sure to communicate your expectations, involve them in the planning process, and give them some time off so that everyone can enjoy the trip.