Like this:

I can’t imagine I’m the only one out there who has been unable to find a satisfactory job given the current economic climate.  Although I haven’t actually started work as an au pair, I figure now is as good a time as any to share some of what I’ve learned in stumbling upon this opportunity.

1.  What is an au pair?

Unlike a nanny, an au pair does not provide full-time, specialized childcare.  Instead, an au pair is generally expected to fill more of a “big sibling” role, incorporating into the family and providing stimulation and supervision for children.  Unlike full-time nannies, au pairs typically work a more limited schedule of around 30 hours per week.  The au pair’s schedule typically adapts to the family’s needs for assistance, and may include evening and weekend babysitting, morning preparation, and afternoon supervision.  While au pairs are generally not required to perform extensive housekeeping or cooking, some meal preparation and light housework are often part of the au pair’s duties.  In most countries, the au pair receives room, board, insurance, and a small living allowance as compensation, and may also receive assistance with language courses or tickets for public transport.  Typically, the au pair must pay for her own arrival to / departure from the host country.

2.  Who can be an au pair?

Au pairs are generally 20-something females, although male applicants of similar age range are sometimes also accepted.  Other applicant requirements depend heavily on the particular family and host country laws.  Advanced knowledge of English (or sometimes another language) is often a requisite, though, as many families employ au pairs in order to bolster the multilinguality of their children.

3.  Why be an au pair?

You may enjoy being an au pair if you:

-Enjoy spending time with children
-Would like to spend time abroad / learn about another culture / learn a different language
-Are flexible and adaptable to new situations

You may not enjoy being an au pair if you:

-Dislike children
-Get homesick easily
-Are uncomfortable adapting your schedule to meet the needs of others

4.  Is it difficult to get a job as an au pair?

If you are a 20-something female who likes kids, has an open mind, and wants to see the world, I’d posit that it’s not all that challenging to find a host family that may be right for you.  While past experience with childcare or teaching are useful attributes, many families look for open-minded, motivated, energetic individuals instead of those with many years of experience as caretakers.  I think demand for au pairs varies pretty significantly among countries, but I’ve found a ton of listings for Germany, Spain, France and Great Britain as well as Australia and other places.

5.  Sounds great!  How do I find a family?

There are many websites that offer au pair matching services.  Some cost money and/or are plagued by scammers.  Although the best sites differ by country, I’ve had great luck with http://www.aupair-agency.com/. The website offers au pair matching, free for both families and prospective au pairs, in countries worldwide.  Although they say that you won’t get contacts without photos, references, and a “dear family” letter, I posted my simple profile and heard from families in my chosen countries within a day or two.  They also offer the option to browse family information and apply directly to those that interest you.  Your full application and contact information are never posted publicly (they mediate all contact through very polite “are you interested?  find out more…” emails), and I have only received legitimate contacts through this agency.

Have other questions?  I’m happy to talk further about logistics pre-departure, though I can’t offer any extensive insight into the job itself for a few more months.  Feel free to email me (see the about section) or post a comment!

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