By Trevor Nichols (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-05-12 08:57

Employing the services of an ayi (nanny) is also popular, however many newbie expats don't know where to begin. Finding an ayi is actually rather easy, according to Bollhalder.

"There are a ton of agencies and expat clubs around, just be sure to do a background check," she says.

This background check may include a trip to the clinic for a health examination, which may sound a bit harsh, but is actually quite common in China.

Bollhalder says it is a good idea to register an ayi for basic emergency first aid course while they are at the health clinic, especially if there are children in your home.

"Maybe you can set them up with some sort of local health insurance," she says. "It isn't necessarily expected, but they really appreciate it."

Be sure to set out the ground rules from day one, according to Bollholder.

Tell them to be flexible but be sure to be clear on what you expect, she says.

"There are certain parts of your expat lifestyle they may not be used to," she says.

"Show them what quality produce you want them to buy, where to take your kids in an emergency, how to use a washer and dryer, maybe buy a bilingual cookbook.

"They will be really grateful for everything that you teach them."

Enrolling your children into a playgroup is another challenge but many big-city expat magazines have advertisements for parents seeking playgroups.

Parents also worry about their teenage children. One good piece of advice is to ensure your teenage children carry a photocopy of their passport in case of some emergency.

There are plenty of sports options for older kids, day and night. "Most schools offer fantastic sports programs," says Bollhalder.

Golf, dancing, soccer, hiking, taichi and kungfu are just a few sports on offer.

Additionally there are Chinese classes, summer camps, religious activities, and every kind of after school activity imaginable.

Health issues are usually always on top of the worry list.

An expats' health and life insurance must be up-to-date, "just for peace of mind", says Bollhalder.

(China Daily 05/12/2008 page8)

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