An au pair is a domestic worker who helps with childcare duties to supplement household income. If you’re thinking about becoming an au pair, you should first learn more about au pairs; the benefits and risks before making a decision.
What is an Au Pair?
An au pair is a foreign national who lives with a family in another country as a live-in caregiver. Au pairs go to another country, typically stay with host families, and care for children. The au pair earns money to live and provide for themselves while gaining international experience and language proficiency. Au pairs can be student-age or professionally trained. Au pairs are hired by families who are looking for a caregiver for their children. The au pair is responsible for the children’s daily activities, including cooking, cleaning, homework assistance, and sports or other extracurricular activities. Au pair jobs usually last for a minimum of three months but may be renewed for another three months or longer.
The Benefits of Being an Au Pair
– Experience and Language – Au pairs are typically paid an hourly rate. While you may only be in a country for a short period of time, living with a different family is a valuable opportunity. Living and working with another culture can help you gain new insights and develop language skills. Au pairs also have the opportunity to travel abroad which provides unique experiences. – Free Housing – In exchange for caring for children, au pairs are provided with housing and meals. This is an inexpensive way to live abroad and get free housing. – Financial Security – Au pairs typically receive a monthly salary, so they have some financial security while they work. Au pairs can also work part-time, so they can have some flexibility in their work schedule.
The Risks of Being an Au Pair
– Risky Employment Status – Au pairs are often employed under a short-term or freelance contract. This means that the au pair is not officially employed and may not be eligible for certain employment benefits, such as health insurance or paid vacation time. If you choose to become an au pair, be aware that you may not have the employment protections that other workers do. – Cultural Differences – Au pairs are placed with host families, who are typically from another country. This can lead to cultural differences. Different family dynamics, foods, and lifestyles can pose a challenge for au pairs. If you’re an au pair, be aware of these differences and be patient if you have to adjust to certain situations. – Personal Security – While au pairs are provided with housing and living expenses, they are not guaranteed a job. While this is not a serious concern for some people, it is worth keeping in mind. If you’re considering becoming an au pair, be sure you are comfortable with the risk.
Should You Be an Au Pair?
If you’re interested in international experience and earning money, becoming an au pair is an affordable way to live and work abroad. Depending on the country you’re sent to, an au pair can earn between $100 and $400 per week. Au pairs can also travel while they are working, allowing them to see other parts of the world. Au pairs can make valuable friends and get skills that they can use in their future careers. If you are considering becoming an au pair, take the time to review your candidacy. Au pair positions are competitive, so be sure you are fully prepared to take on the responsibilities of this unique job.
Conclusion
An au pair is a domestic worker who helps with childcare duties in order to supplement household income. Au pairs typically live with a host family for a set period of time and help with the daily activities of the host children. If you’re interested in international experience and earning money, becoming an au pair is a low-risk way to live and work abroad.