I'm moving with my family to HK. I will be working in the Causeway Bay area. I have a 18 month old daughter. Is she too young to be accepted into a childcare center in HK? If this option does not work, is it usual for expat moms to hire a in-house nanny to care for young child while they are at work. How much does it cost to hire an experienced nanny and what are the usual ways to find one (referals, use a service agent, etc)? In addition, If I would like to find an apt within walking distance to the MTR and childcare centers/kindergarden with good reputation, where is a good place to live?
Any suggestions? thanks a lot
It is true not only for expat moms, but just generally moms, to be hiring Filipino or Indonesian helpers to do domestic chores around the house. While they may be great help, they aren't actually trained to take care of kids. More recently, there is an influx of professional Caucasian nannies with legit degrees to help out with expat families who gives much importance to childcare. They usually work by referral, so that is something you will need to research once you have arrived. You might get some tips from Yummy Mummy (http://yummymummyasia.com/) beforehand though.
Expats with children tend to live either in Mid Levels, where it is more convenient for school and work, or in more suburban areas like Sai Kung or Repulse Bay, which is more spacious. Anywhere within walking distance from the MTR is usually sardine packed and the air quality leaves much to be desired, so do have a second think before you take your pick. Refer to Centaline Property (http://hk.centanet.com/eng/ehome.htm) for more district info.