Helper schedule and breaks

I have done lots of searches, and gotten lots of information on this subject, but SORRY, I still have questions on the Domestic Helper subject...


In addition to a lunch break, our helper likes to take about an hour in the middle of the day (when my children get home from school!) to take a shower, etc. Her normal schedule is to work from 6:45am to around 7 or 7:30pm, with these and other small breaks. At around 7 or 7:30 in the evening, after she cleans up the dinner dishes, etc., she just takes off without a word, for her room, or to go on a "walk," (often she talks to the night guard). This happens whether or not my husband is here and I am alone taking care of the two children. Is this a "typical" schedule? I think she likes to take her shower after she does her morning cleaning, but for me, it would be more convenient for her to get ready in the morning when no one is here, or in the evening, after dinner.


Am I being taken advantage of???



Posted by Cara


when my helper starts next week, i'm going to give her a rough schedule of when i like things done during the day...also of how often i'd like things done...ie a list of everyday things, twice per week things, once per week, once per month etc....

i'm sure if you explain to her exactly what you're looking for, you won't have any problem.


for example, i DON'T want our helper rising with the dawn(small apartment, would wake us up). I'd rather she get up around 7 or 7:15, then get breakfast ready(or herself), then around 9 she can do the vacuuming, etc... you get the idea...


i don't think that you're being taken advantage of, i think you haven't made yourself clear in you expectations...(she's working around 11 hours/day, how's that taking advantage??) the problem is that she's not doing stuff to your schedule... so sit down with her, explain the problem and then the two of you make her a schedule you'll both be happy with



Posted by Mighty


I agree with cara. You have to be very clear with them with your instructions and expectations. Dont assume that they should understand and stuff like that. Each family has different rules and expectations.

are they entitle to live out if they have been here more than 8 years i.e residency entitlement in Hk?