Postby dansk1234dance » Mon Feb 03, 2014 9:53 am
I feel that I by now have had quite a lot of experience of hiring (and firing) au pairs and nannies.
I've mentioned this in previous posts, but I wouldn't hesitate changing things if I believed that the current situation compromised the safety or happiness of my children or if for some other reason the happiness of my family life was compromised.
I realised that au pairs are not the same as a nanny, but nonetheless it's a job, and she has, when she took the job, accepted the t&cs.
It seems as if she has become less dedicated to her job (talking about you behind your back to your cleaner isn't acceptable in my book) telling you, as if you are the children, to be back by 11 pm isn't really acceptable either.
If you're both working full time away from the home, you need flexible can-do-attitude and she's not really displaying that in which case I would look around for someone who's willing to do that.
There are so many wonderful au pairs and nannies out there, and I realise it's a hassle finding a new one and settling them in, but trust me it's always worth it!
I'd start interviewing a handful of different au pairs, so see what else is out there and what might be suitable. Try aupairworld or even an agency.
I'd then get rid of her asap, as she is not really dedicated to you anymore, why should you be dedicated to her?