Hiring an au pair is a big decision for any family. They’re a stranger coming to live in your home for one year.
However, they’re an excellent option for many families. They’re cheaper, more flexible, provide childcare, and offer a cultural exchange.
They’re Cheaper
If you’re looking for childcare, au pairs can be a cost-effective option. However, they must be matched with you through an agency like Go Au Pair.
You’ll also need to factor in your au pair’s agency fees (usually around $200 a week) plus their stipend and the part of education costs you contribute to. You’ll also need to consider domestic transportation fees and any additional insurance that may be required.
Many au pairs will work extra hours during school holidays to provide child care. They might take your children to the park, zoo, or swimming pool or help with holiday meals during vacation.
Au pairs can also be a great way to learn a new language and get to know another culture! They are more than babysitters; they become extended family members and valuable assets for your children.
They’re More Flexible.
Au pairs are a great way to learn a new language and are often on more flexible schedules than nannies, allowing them to respond to changing family needs. This can be especially helpful if the kids’ school and daycare schedules change suddenly.
For many families, this is an ideal option because it offers them a great deal of flexibility without the cost of hiring a nanny or daycare center. They can also take the time to get to know their children and learn their preferences.
This allows them to communicate with each other in a relaxed, natural manner and helps them both to learn a new language.
Au pairs can work up to 45 hours a week on a schedule that the host family chooses. This allows them to respond to a changing family’s needs, such as an early morning pickup or a date night every other Friday.
They’re a Great Way to Learn a New Language.
The au pair program is an excellent way for young people to travel and learn a new language. During the stay, au pairs live with host families in exchange for room and board and a small stipend. They also participate in cultural events and language courses as part of the au pair program.
Agencies will work with you to match you with a family and advise on legal matters and visas. A family can search for an au pair using websites They can also contact agencies and program providers directly.
Many au pairs also spend their free time traveling and exploring new places. They can visit different cities and participate in local festivals, activities, and attractions.
Another thing to remember is that au pairs should care for their rooms and the house. This is because a family will expect their host pair to keep the house clean and tidy.
There are also many Facebook groups for au pairs that can be a great place to make friends while in a new country. This can be especially helpful when making friends who speak the language you are learning.
They’re a Great Way to Travel.
If you’re looking for a way to get away from it all and explore a new country, au pairs are a great option. Not only are they cheaper than other types of accommodation, but they’re also much more flexible.
For example, you can arrange for your au pair to stay on during a holiday so they can use their time off to travel around the area. This can be a fantastic way for your au pair to experience a new country’s culture and learn more about the local language.
However, it’s essential to communicate with your au pair about this. Otherwise, you may find that they’re tired and unhappy while on holiday or unable to do the things you want them to do.
If you are thinking about using an au pair, it’s important to remember that they’re there to help you with your children. They’re not there to make you feel uncomfortable or to be a burden on your family. They’re there to bring you a unique experience and improve your life.
They’re a Great Way to Get to Know a New Culture.
You may think au pairing is just a way to get childcare, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to experience a new culture. Whether you’re an au pair or a host family, you’ll be introduced to a different culture and language that will open your mind to all sorts of possibilities.
Often, au pairs will go to school abroad to learn a new language and improve their skills. This gives them a much deeper understanding of the country and its people, which can be invaluable when they want to travel back home.
The experience of interacting with a new culture can be life-changing. It can help you to explore your own identity and find out what you’re passionate about.
If you’re an au pair, you can also gain work experience during your time abroad. It could even lead you to your dream career.
Many au pair programs also offer a vacation package to their participants. This is an excellent opportunity to leave the house and enjoy the sun. However, communicate with your au pair about what activities are covered and what she must pay for herself.
