Frequently Asked Questions About Being an Au Pair
Becoming an Au Pair can be an exciting experience and opportunity for anywhere in the world, but it also comes with its questions and hesitations. If you're considering to be a part of this adventure, it's normal to have some questions about being an Au Pair. In this blog, let's talk about the most frequently asked questions about being an au pair and give you with valuable information and recommendations to help you about your journey.
1. What is an Au Pair?
First, let's give you a definition. An au pair is a young person (mostly female) who lives with a host family in a foreign country while at the same time providing and helping them with childcare and light household duties in exchange for accommodation, food, pocket money and sometimes a language course in the country. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement that allows the both sides (host family and the au pair) to experience new cultural differences, normals and value. This program strictly should not be mixed with being a nanny or a house maid! Let's call it being a big sister for the children in short!
2. What are the typical responsibilities of an Aupair?
The primary responsibility of an au pair is to look after the host family's children with special care. This may involve tasks such as preparing sometimes meals for the family, preparing breakfast for the children, helping them with their homework, organizing activities, joining their gym activities, tennis classes, teaching them how to play a musical instrument and ensuring their safety and well-being. Additionally, au pairs often assist with light household duties, such as tidying up the children's rooms or doing laundry.
3. How long does an aupair stay with a host family?
The duration of an au pair stay can vary, but it is typically between six months to one year. It is also possible that some families only look for during the summer time when the schools are closed. Some au pairs or host families choose to extend their stay with the same host family if both parties spend very useful and great time together.
4. What qualifications or skills do I need to become an au pair?
Specific requirements for being an Aupair may vary depending on the host country, but most au pair programs require candidates to be between 18-30 years old, have a high school diploma at least or equivalent, and have basic childcare experience. It's also beneficial to have special love for children, patience, and a willingness to adapt to new culture and norms & values. Knowing how to swim, playing an instruments, talking with different foreign languages and owning a first aid certificate are big advantages for being selected as an aupair.
5. What benefits can I expect as an au pair?
As an au pair, you will have the opportunity to dive yourself in a different culture, learn a new language, and gain valuable life skills. You'll receive a room and private time from your host family, a pocket money for personal expenses, and often have access to language classes and transportation tickets. In Turkey families are willing to pay the flight ticket half-half and the residence permit fees as well. It's a great way to broaden your horizons and create lifelong memories.
6. Will I have free time as an au pair?
Yes, as an au pair, you will have scheduled free time to explore your host country, continue your hobbies, and socialize with other au pairs in the same city. We sometimes do Aupair union in some cities and you can join them as well. The number of hours you work each day may be changing depending on the family needs. That's why do not expect to be aupair and wait for 9am to 6pm job. If you look for something like do not put yourself in this experience. You will be disappointed!
7. What support will I have as an au pair?
Au pair agencies and host families typically provide support throughout your au pair journey. Agencies can assist with the application process for visa requirements or residence permits, and matching you with a suitable host family what we call a perfect match. Once you arrive, your host family will be your main support, guiding you through your new responsibilities, schedule and helping you adjust to your new surroundings.
As a conclusion, becoming an au pair is a great opportunity to explore a new country and experience new norms and values within the country and immerse yourself in a different culture, and develop lifelong friendships. While the experience may come with its challenges, the rewards and personal growth you will have are you can find it in nowhere else. By understanding these frequently asked questions by many people to us about being an au pair, now if you read all of them, you're better equipped to make your decision for being an Au Pair! Let us know if you have other questions and we will be pleased to answer you.