Hi we're new to Singapore and haven't had much experience with helpers. We have a 10 month old son and we are both working. Our helpers primary responsibility will be to look after our son, cleaning the house and cooking. What qualities would you suggest we look for in a helper?

I would prefer someone who has worked with young kids before. She could be a mom herself or single but has handles children. You can ask around if your friends know of someone or go to an agency. I would suggest training the helper for a couple of weeks before letting her look after your child alone. Also, you should stress out her responsibilities. Should she concentrate on the kids? Or the housework? We treat our helper like a family member and so she treats our kid like her own too :-)

Since her primary responsibility is looking after your son, I would suggest: -strong ability to converse in English/your preferred language -love for children -patience -positive and cheery appearance

It would be good if your helper is able to have first aid skill and able to engage your son in some interesting activities.

thanks