As parents we face many challenges. One of those challenges is childcare.

I always thought an au pair was expensive and out of the realm of the average person. I was so wrong! Compare the cost of a good daycare or pre-school with an au pair and you'll be surprised.

An au pair is not a nanny. An au pair is a young girl from another country that would live with your family. She could be like an older sister or member of the family.

There are so many benefits to an au pair. Your children can learn foreign customs and words in another language. They have one person dedicated to them - not a person working with a room full of children.

An au pair can help you with errands, dropping off or picking up the kids at school, and maybe even get dinner started. Their hours can be arranged to meet your schedule. Working late or being stuck in traffic is no longer a major issue.

Schools out for the summer, what do you do? There are some agencies that offer au pair services just for the summer. Imagine your kids at the pool or movies during the summer instead of being bored or home alone.

If you are interested in the services of an au pair for at home childcare there are some websites to get you started, http://www.eurapair is a good one. Or search under "au pair" for more ideas.

If anyone is currently using an au pair I'd love to hear from you.