From Homestay to Demi Pair – Experience Interview

February 6, 2019

The best way to find out if being an Au Pair or Demi-Pair is right for you is to talk to those who went through the process themselves. It will help you – an aspiring Au Pair – to get an idea of what to expect once you become an au pair. You’ll be able to learn tips on what to prepare and what you can do to make your experience as awesome as possible.

99aupairs recently had the privilege to interview Ana, a demi au pair who just arrived in Melbourne a couple of weeks ago. She’s 20 years old, a student, and she came all the way from Mexico.

We asked her a couple of questions about herself, about being a Demi-Pair, her country, and so much more.

Why would someone choose to come to Australia?

Ana came to Australia because she wanted to study English and then apply to study International Business at the University of Melbourne, Melbourne’s top university. She also wanted to learn more about the country, the language, and the people in Australia. She didn’t know about the au pair program until her homestay mother introduced her to it. Initially, her family from Mexico did a homestay arrangement, where she stays with a local family and had board and food provided for her. But then by meeting the family’s own Au Pair, she found out about being a Demi-Pair, Ana realized it’s actually better than a homestay because she does not pay the fees and can earn pocket money.

Why become a Demi-Pair?

Ana shared to us the advantages of being a demi-pair. Aside from living with a family that treated her like one of their own, she’s also able to continue practicing her English speaking skills more because the family and the kids communicate to her in English all throughout the day. She felt secure and comfortable living with the family. Being a demi au pair allows her to save on weekly homestay expenses earn some pocket money while improving her English, and at the same time a chance to go to a local University to pursue her degree.

What kind of questions would the host-family ask?

The host-family asked Ana a few questions before she was accepted as a demi-au pair. Some of the questions they asked her were:

What are your hobbies?
What do you usually do during a normal day?
What type of food do you like?
Are you okay with the activities of the family?

She then went on to chat and meet with the family’s current Au Pair, their children and the host mum. This is a critical part to ensure you really connect with the family and get a full picture.

What kind of questions should one ask the host-family?

Ask for the schedule and confirm when you would have your time off. Ensure this aligns with your school hours first before progressing So always ask to speak with current or past au pairs. This will give you great insight into how family life really is.

Always ask about the children, their routines and parenting styles. This will help you to see if you are comfortable with the way the parents raise their children.

Especially for Ana’s family, it was important that she was safe. So as an extra step she asked for the ID of the host mum and proof of address. While it is not needed in all cases, it will help put your own parents at ease.

What child care experience should one have to be qualified as a Demi-Pair?

Ana used to be a swimming teacher back in Mexico. Almost all of her team members were kids which gives her the experience she needs to qualify as a demi-pair. And she genuinely loves children, playing with them and talking to them.

How to better with the family?

Whether you’re a Demi-Pair or a full-time au pair, it’s important for you to fit with the family well to make sure your relationship improves and to avoid misunderstandings. We asked Ana to share tips when dealing with a host family. Here are things she mentioned:

Be open minded
Always be friendly
Smile. Smile a lot.

What is it like to live in Melbourne?

The crazy weather is one of the first things Ana noticed when she first came to Melbourne. She suggests that if you’re a first-time Au Pair, make sure to bring sunscreen lotion and water with you at all times. We agree with Ana with it comes to the unpredictable weather in Melbourne. People used to joke around and say that if you use your heater and air-conditioner both at the same time, you’re really in Melbourne.

As for tips on how to go around Melbourne, Ana suggests that you use google maps and use PTV (Public Transport Victoria) to take the train, because it is very easy to use. She said she’s still learning about the places in Australia so if you’re a first time visitor like her, google maps can really help you out.

What places to visit in Melbourne?

If you just came to Australia as an au pair, Ana recommends that you visit the Botanical Garden and look for the beautiful Graffiti Lanes. She added that even if you just walked around you’ll still be able to appreciate the beauty of the city.

How can a Demi-Pair deal with homesickness?

According to Ana, keeping yourself busy and making new friends are great ways to avoid homesickness. She also shared how much she misses the taste of her mother’s cooking and just Mexican food in general but she doesn’t really have any problem adjusting to the food in Australia. While interviewing her, we noticed that she has a really positive attitude and we believe it helped her overcome homesickness as well.

What tips can you share for those who are thinking to become an Au Pair?

We loved Ana’s response to this question because it really showed her determination and positive outlook on life. For those who are thinking to become an au pair, Ana encourages you to reach for your dreams. She also said that it doesn’t matter if your English isn’t good. You can always improve it with the help of your host family. You’ll be able to improve your skills and vocabulary by being a demi au pair as well. Lastly, she said to never be afraid to take the risk.

Ana is looking for new friends around the Melbourne area. Be one of her friends! Reach out to her through her Insta @Karen_Perez9 and join our 99aupairs_AupairsOnly group on Facebook.

We hope that you find Ana’s tips and experience useful when deciding whether you want to become an au pair or a demi-pair. You can also reach out on Insta 99aupairs if you need help in finding the perfect match for you. We can help make your experience as an au pair smooth, fun, and unforgettable!