Au pairs are a popular option for families looking for live-in childcare and cultural exchange. An au pair is a young adult from a foreign country who comes to live with a host family and provide childcare services. In this blog post, I will guide you through the process of getting an au pair, the benefits of having one and some tips on how to have a successful experience.
The first step in getting an au pair is to find a reputable agency. This is important as the agency will handle all of the necessary paperwork and background checks, and will also provide support throughout the process. A good agency will have a wide range of candidates to choose from and will help you find a suitable match based on your family’s needs. I personally looked at Aupaircare, Aupair in America and Culture Care mainly during my search.
Once you have matched with an au pair, you will need to provide them with a room and board, as well as a weekly allowance. The au pair will also be responsible for taking care of the children, and will be expected to work no more than 45 hours per week. This can include tasks such as picking up and dropping off the kids from school, preparing meals, and helping with homework, doing activities etc.
One of the major benefits of having an au pair is that they are able to provide a cultural exchange for the children. The au pair can teach the children about their own culture and language, which can be a valuable learning experience. This can also be a great opportunity for your children to learn a new language and gain a better understanding of different cultures. In my case, our Au pair is teaching the kids spanish. Another benefit of having an au pair is that they are able to provide flexible childcare. This can be especially helpful for working parents who may have unpredictable schedules. The au pair can also help with light household tasks, such as laundry and cooking, which can be a great relief for busy families.
In conclusion, having an au pair can be a great solution for families looking for flexible childcare and cultural exchange. However, it is important to do your research and find a reputable agency to help you through the process. With the right agency, you can find a suitable au pair who will be a great addition to your family and provide the support you need to make your life easier. Please check out my video below for some tips and update on how my experience is going. I have also liked a welcome package template an the bottom of this post. Hope this helps!