Au Pair

When it comes to accepting a place within the structure of a host family situated in a foreign country, a young woman or young man may become an au pair. During a predetermined amount of time, the young person will live as an equal within a household, taking on typical chores that a family member would normally assume.

Au pairs may help look after the children, complete basic housework, or do a little of both while living at the home of a selected family. An au pair also receives a small allowance (or money for their pocket) during their stay.

While an au pair assumes some of the responsibilities of the household, they essentially become an extended member of a family. It is important to know that there are also additional duties that both the family and au pair must take on. A mutual respect in regards to cultural differences is expected from both parties. Tolerance should be displayed towards one another at all times.

Getting Placed

A person entering into an au pair arrangement is unmarried and usually between the ages of 17 and 30. The au pair often resides up to two years within a foreign country while becoming a member of a local family. They are expected to pitch in around the household for a set number of hours per day with the expectation of room and board, as well as an allowance. Au pairs generally receive at least two full days to themselves during the week. In exchange, a decent room filled with privacy with additional perks is received.

To make sure the rules and guidelines regarding an au pair arrangement are unwavering, the Council of Europe suggests that every au pair receives a standard contract with their host family. Throughout the world, various weekly allowance averages and responsibilities differ. For example, the recommended amount for weekly pocket money in the United Kingdom is £55.

What An Au Pair Is Not

One of the most important things to remember regarding an au pair arrangement is that the young woman or man taken into the home is not a servant and should not be treated as such. They are not required to put on a uniform and should not be given orders. Overall, an au pair is responsible for the tasks stated in the contract agreed upon before they enter a household.

Common Au Pair Treatment

A common practice pertaining to the treatment of au pairs is that they are welcome to eat meals with the family and participate in family activities and outings. Usually, during the evening, an au pair may retire to their room to watch television, go out with friends from school, or study while the family shares private time to themselves.

When it comes to different countries, an array of requirements and law-enforced regulations influence international au pair arrangements. For example, in Finland, au pairs are usually responsible for six hours of light housework per day for five days out of the week. Room and food is provided, as well as an allowance of at least 252 euros per month (a Finnish law minimum). One-week paid vacations are also included. To receive more information regarding au pair arrangements, contacting one of the many legal agencies that exist is suggested.

Au Pair |