Adapting to a change

Well, this period is quite stressful for us as we have engaged a live-in helper. Purpose is to take care of Sarah and Ryan and will be supervised by grandma, po po when I start work.

We are all adjusting to the change in lifestyle with a stranger in the family; Auntie Ee, our helper. She came on Mar 17, totally inexperienced, 24 yrs old, pleasant looking and seems to be able to click well with children.

After 2 days of training, she is able to bathe Sarah, diaper change, dress her. Though not perfect, still acceptable. Sarah is still trying to get used to her and fuss at times as auntie is really slow hee. Auntie has quite abit of problem handling Ryan as he likes to throw tantrum.

I tried to be very patient to auntie as she is slow in picking up the chores, forgetful, operating the appliances etc. Her command of english is extremely poor too. Thus, i have to speak in broken english and talk with actions and even write down in simple words to let her understand what I am trying to convey.

I even gave her a set of house rules, time table, checklist and got the translator to translate them and I went through with her almost everyday.

I really hope that she can be independent after 1 mth of training. My friends told me that it normally take 1 mth. In that way, we would be able to spend quality time with the children.

If we have a choice, we rather not engaged a stay-in helper as I have to look after her welfare, ensure that she is feeling okay, supervise her closely; so tiring and troublesome. Having said that, its really not easy to handle the household for a working mother with 2 kids. No wonder, most people have to engage a helper.

So far, her performance has been okay and her attitude is good. Really hope that she will improve and not slacken particularly when I am starting work soon....

I have already stressed to her that her first priority is to take care of the children and housework is secondary as I know that she will not be able to multi-task and will be stressed out due to her different lifestyle back home.

Wish us good luck ;o)