Au pair versus childcare: which is cheaper?
The topic of childcare costs often sparks debate. Everyone has their own opinion on this important issue, whether you already have children or are planning to start a family. Some prefer that children go to a childcare centre, while others prefer that children are cared for at home. There is no right or wrong answer, but the key question is: which is cheaper? We will try to address this here.
It is important to remember that what works well for one family may not be the ideal solution for yours. Choosing a childcare option depends on individual circumstances and personal needs. Therefore, it is important to be aware of all available options.
What are your requirements?
To understand the costs of childcare compared to an au pair, it is helpful to first assess your specific requirements. Consider factors such as your desired hour/day/week schedule for childcare, the need for in-home care, flexibility requirements (e.g., shift work/irregular hours), regular babysitting needs, budget constraints, and any special needs of your child or children. A clear understanding of your own preferences will assist in making the decision and understanding the associated costs.
Some parents may not be able to use regular childcare due to irregular work hours or because local childcare centres are full or have long waiting times. You might pay around 100 euros per day per child, which adds up significantly if you have multiple children. For this reason, an au pair could be the ideal solution. When you have an au pair in your home, you also need to consider additional programme costs and the monthly costs for pocket money and insurance, as well as extra groceries and utilities like gas, water, and electricity. See our costs page for a detailed overview.
Au pairs offer significantly more flexibility compared to traditional childcare. Since the children are cared for at home, it provides a safe environment with personal attention for each individual. If you come home a bit later, it does not make much difference to the au pair, as they live with you. This means you do not have to rush home or reschedule appointments like haircuts or dentist visits, as your au pair will handle it effortlessly.
Is an au pair only for 'wealthy' families?
Using an au pair is often associated with wealthy families, but this is far from the truth! Looking at the monthly costs, it is actually a cost-effective solution for childcare if you have an extra room available for the au pair. Besides the costs, there are various factors to consider when having an au pair in your home, and we would be happy to tell you more about them. Learn more about this cultural exchange, the benefits or the duties of an au pair.
Enjoy affordable and flexible childcare!
