In this day and age, we as parents have so many things to worry about. Why should safe, reliable, affordable childcare be one of them? LetÕs face it: the economy has many families on shaky ground these days. One extremely crucial thing to worry about is whether or not we are providing the absolute best for our children. I am a working parent who has been involved with au pair programs for over six years. As a parent, company representative, and researcher, IÕd like to share with you the insight I have gathered in hopes of easing some of your anxiety about this vital decision facing your family: what form of child care should we use and, who do we hire? I have interviewed several company representatives, host families past and present, as well as au pairs. I hope to provide you with insightful information for your family as you weigh whether or not the au pair program is right for you.