Dear Ladies,

Do you sometimes feel as though time is passing faster and faster? The good news is that our perception of time is not fixed — it is something we can actively influence.

Research (for instance Frontiers in Psychology)  shows that anxiety speeds up our internal clock, making the world around us seem to move in slow motion. Positive experiences, however, can also “stretch” time. Moments of awe — whether in nature, while listening to music, or through meaningful encounters — bring us completely into the here and now. Time feels richter, and we become more relaxed and content.

Variety and new experiences play an important role as well. Our brains measure time through memories: the more diverse and emotionally rich our experiences are, the longer life feels in retrospect. Routine, by contrast, causes time to seem as though it is slipping away.

Especially later in life, curiosity, time spent in nature, close relationships, and mindfulness can expand our sense of time — regardless of age.

As a Granny Aupair, you can enjoy new encounters and experiences by supporting families, as a companion, or getting involved in social projects. Below, we introduce three families who are currently looking for a loving temporary grandmother. You can discover many more families in our online community.

Best wishes from

Michaela Hansen and your Granny Aupair-Team

 

Magic of the Emerald Isle

Fascinating landscapes, ancient stone forts, megalithic tombs, plus a distinctive art, music and pub culture: In the beautiful west of Ireland, in Headford, a charming town not far from Galway and the Atlantic coast, a small family of musicians (user name Aiofe) with a one-year-old son is looking for a loving temporary grandmother with experience of small children, a driving licence and, if possible, who also enjoys cooking, from the beginning of April.

The father will be away on tour in April and May, so the mother would appreciate some support. The mother is also planning a short tour within Ireland and would be delighted if the Granny could accompany her. The Granny will be provided with a cosy room with its own bathroom in a large house in a rural setting (and a hotel room during the tour).

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Portugal’s picturesque south coast

The Algarve, Portugal's picturesque south coast, enchants visitors with its beautiful sandy beaches, charming fishing villages and Mediterranean climate.

In the small town of Mexilhoeira da Carregação between Silves and Lagos, a very sporty international family of five (use rname nboeh) with three sons (11, 8, and 6 months) plus a dog is looking for a flexible, experienced, open-minded Granny Aupair with a driving licence and safe driving skills (even in the dark) who also enjoys cooking. As the father travels abroad a lot, the mother would appreciate some support, especially with driving the older sons around.

Both boys attend the German school until the afternoon, but do a lot of sports in the afternoons. The Granny will have her own small house with a roof terrace 200 metres from the main house. A car will also be provided. Travel expenses will be covered in part.

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Germany's vibrant capital 

The fascinating international metropolis is known for its cultural flair and is home to world-class museums and three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as trendy neighbourhoods, unique shopping streets and green oases. Berlin's diverse art scene includes hundreds of galleries and events.

In the exciting district of Prenzlauer Berg, a granny-experienced family of (user name LeCljo), with a girl aged 8 and two sons aged 6 and 4, is looking for a reliable, experienced temporary grandma, preferably for a longer period.

The children attend school and nursery until around 3 p.m., giving the Granny plenty of time to explore the exciting city and/or visit an language course. The Granny will have her own flat (55 square metres) near the large family apartment.

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Different countries and people, different customs

As a Granny Aupair, you will be staying with a host family whose rules and routines may differ from those you are used to. It is important to clarify in advance whether suggestions or ideas for improvement are welcome.

Since your stay with the family is temporary, existing rules should be respected and not questioned — even if you would personally handle certain things differently. Try to immerse yourself in the family’s way of life and daily routines. There is usually a good reason why things are done the way they are.