Childminder (Tagesmutter/-vater)
This is a private individual who offers childcare, for up to five children, in her/his own home. They have a recognized childcare qualification and an official childcare permit. Some are affiliated with an organization, whereas others are independent.
Hired grandparent (Leihoma/-opa)
The principle of this service is a long-term “hired grandparent” – typically someone of retirement age – with a regular weekly schedule of child contact (i.e. not just an evening babysitter twice a month), who looks after your children in your own home. They are available for children of all ages (birth through to teenagers) and will look after more than one child. They have no specific certifications, although all have considerable childcare experience, and some have formal training.
Babysitter
It is important to bear in mind that babysitters need to have done an official childcare course (minimum 8 hours) for you to be able to tax deduct their costs of up to 2300 € per year. For details go to the Austrian Ministry of Finance website (in German). There may be issues if the babysitter is not declaring the income and is not insured.
Au-pair
Most people find an au-pair through an agency (Au-Pair-Argentur) which will also inform you about the Austrian regulations and guide you through the necessary administrative steps.