What's an Au Pair's role exactly?

What is an Au Pair?

An Au Pair is a single person, without dependants aged 18-27 who wants to learn a foreign language and learn about the culture by living as part of the family.

An Au Pair is not a trained childcarer but will have some experience with children through babysitting, looking after siblings or tutoring but they rarely have any qualifications. They may also have some experience in housework. The Au Pairs tend to have a basic or intermediate level of English. Some Au Pairs are experienced drivers

What is an Au Pair's role?

Childcare

An Au Pair has a role that could be considered to be that of an older sister, or a visiting niece. Au Pairs are primarily expected to help with the children before and after school.

Housework

An Au Pair can also help to carry out some light housework which should be mainly child-related. Please see the list of Au Pair Tasks to see what you and can't ask your Au Pair to do. Any questions, just let us know.

Their position within the family

An Au Pair should be included in family activities including most mealtimes and some outings. They will expect to be treated as a family member and not an employee. This is essential if the placement is to succeed.