Becoming an au pair is a unique opportunity to live with a host family, experience a new culture, and help care for children. The role typically involves a mix of childcare and light household duties focused on the children, with the added benefit of being able to travel and immerse yourself in a new environment.
Typical Duties of an Au Pair:
- Waking up the children and preparing them for the day.
- Taking or picking up children from school.
- Assisting with homework or other educational activities.
- Playing with the children and engaging them in activities.
- Taking the children on outings to parks, playgroups, etc.
- Preparing light meals for the children and cleaning up afterward.
- Doing the children's laundry and ironing clothes.
- Making the children's beds and tidying their rooms and toys.
- Cleaning the children's bathroom.
Household Duties (related to children):
Tidying communal areas that the children use, but not general housework (like cleaning parents' rooms, cooking for adults, or taking care of pets).
Language Teaching (if required):
Helping children with learning your native language, if this is part of the family's plan.
Following household rules set by the host family (curfew, bedtime, dress code, use of phone/computer). Typically, a household handbook will be provided outlining the specific rules to follow.
Duties Not Included:
- Managing the entire household (cleaning floors, windows, or the parents' areas).
- Taking care of pets.
- Supervising children who are not part of the host family.
Work-Life Balance:
You will usually have time off to explore your new environment, study, and enjoy personal activities. The hours and responsibilities are generally manageable, and you will be living in a family environment, which allows for cultural exchange and a chance to immerse yourself in the language and traditions of the country.
Benefits of Being an Au Pair:
- Cultural Exchange: Living with a local family in a different country allows you to experience the culture firsthand.
- Language Skills: If you're staying in a non-native country, you'll improve your language skills.
- Room and Board: Typically, the host family will provide room and board (housing, meals, and sometimes transportation).
- Salary: Earn around 1000 to 3000 USD monthly, with accommodation, medical aid, and flight bonus.
Requirements:
- Females 18 to 55 years old.
- Good health.
- Grade 12 upwards (high school certification).
Overall, being an au pair is a fantastic way to gain international experience, travel, and improve your personal and professional skills while helping a family with childcare.