There are a number of differences between an au pair and a nanny that you should be aware of before making a decision either way but here we discuss the advantages of an au pair over a nanny.

Benefits of an Au Pair over a Nanny:

• Training: Au pairs that are recruited from U.S.A. government sanctioned programs are required to be trained in CPR, first aid, child development and to show documented proof of childcare experience by a third party.  Nanny training varies greatly today.   The term "nanny" used to refer to a woman who was professionally trained in all aspects of childcare and whose skills were highly valued and sought after.  Nowadays, anyone can call themselves a "nanny" and their training can be very inconstistent from agency to agency.  Usually they are older women without any other occupational training except babysitting. 
• Costs:  The cost of an au pair is approximately $8 per hour and a nanny may charge between $10 - $30 an hour.  In addition, the cost of an au pair remains the same regardless of how many children you have, while a nanny will usually set her fees according to the number of children in the family.
• Support Staff:  Au pair programs provide local support staff (called either a counselor or local area representative) for each family in addition to the main office staff that must maintain a 24/7 emergency hotline and on-call service.  Nanny agencies do have staff to help you,  but when the office is closed, you usually have to wait until the next business day.  If your "nanny" does not come from an agency, and you have an issue or emergency, you are on your own!   
•  Flexibility:  One of the most appealing aspects of the au pair program is the built-in flexibility it affords host families and working couples.  If you are running late at the end of a day, or you have a late night meeting, your au pair can cover for you (at no additional charge).  Nannies typically have a set number of work hours per day and are ready to leave as soon as you get home.  If you do need them to cover for you, there will be an additional charge per hour.
• Choice:  Everyone wants choices from the coffee they drink to the car they drive.  It is the same with childcare.  Au pairs are recruited from over 50 countries and can be selected to match your own unique childcare needs.  Nanny services may be not be able to offer a specific match nor will there be as much choice to choose from. 
• Regulated: Au pair programs must adhere to the U.S. Department of State's strict set of guidelines and are they are annually subjected to audits to ensure they are following the rules.  The government does not regulate nanny agencies and there is very little oversight.

• Cultural Exchange: Au pairs provide a unique opportunity for you and your family to learn about another culture and language.  Nannies are often domestic workers and may or may not add a cross-cultural benefit.