A child-minder is someone who is responsible for taking care of children whilst their parents are busy with work or other important commitments. There are several synonyms for child-minder, which include babysitter, nanny, au pair, governess, and child-care provider. A babysitter is a person who provides temporary care for children, usually in the evening or at weekends. A nanny is a person who is hired to look after children in their own home. An au pair is a young foreign person who lives with a host family and takes care of their children in exchange for room and board. A governess is a person who teaches and takes care of children in their own home. A child-care provider is a professional who is responsible for the well-being and development of children in a daycare or preschool setting.