What Is An Au Pair?
A lot of people do not quite understand the correct au pair definition and may find it confusing to understand the difference between demi-pairs, nannies, babysitters, and even homestays. In this article, we will quickly discuss what Au Pairing is and if it’s something you would like to do. If you’re already in Australia and you’re trying to decide which opportunity is better for you, then this article will surely help you make the right decision.
Au Pair Definition
An Au Pair is a young person, traveling overseas to live with a family, experience a new culture, lifestyle, and learn a new language. These young people are aged 18 to 30 years old and are not married nor have children. Being an Au Pair is a perfect opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and explore brand new adventures. If you’re already in Australia, then we want to congratulate you for being so brave and taking on the challenge of traveling overseas alone! You’re already off to a good start.
Au Pair vs. Nanny
A nanny needs to be qualified in order to look after the kids. She goes home at night when the parents come back home which is the same thing as what babysitters do. They help out a couple of hours to watch over the kids and are paid as regular employees.
Au Pairs on the other hand, actually live with a family and stay with them 24 hours, 7 days a week. They share the family’s lifestyle (meals, activities), join the family on the weekend or holiday trips, although this can vary from family to family. You may be expected to help look after the children and light housework anywhere between 15- 40 hours per week and become a part of the family. And this will vary very much from family to family as with the age of children the schedules can change significantly. This is, therefore, a great opportunity if you’re looking into improving your language skills and experience true Aussie lifestyle because you’ll be communicating with the family every day.
Au Pair vs. Demi Pair
As the name itself implies, demi-pair is like Au Pairs but they’re only spending half of their time looking after children and the other half is for their studies. If you’re a student who goes to a University, then being a demi-pair could be a good option for you as it does not only improve your English skills, it can accommodate your work and studies. You will only be helping with childcare for 15-20 hours a week so you still have time for your studies.
Au Pair vs. Homestay
Homestay is probably the closest you may be with families when being an Au Pair since you also get to live with the family and share most meals with them. However, the main difference is that as a homestay student you have to pay to stay with the family and share meals, while as an Au Pair your first 15-20 hours cover your board and all hours above you receive pocket money on top to spend in any way you want.
Why become an Au Pair?
Being an Au Pair is a great option if you want to have a good place to stay and be surrounded by a loving and supportive family who treats you like a family member. It’s also perfect if you love children, want to keep more pocket money, enjoy the city or the Aussie lifestyle, and travel to new places. If you’re a student, being a demi-pair is definitely an option you should consider first. But remember, no childcare experience, no chance!
Make sure you tune in for our next Facebook Live because we will talk about how to manage life as a a live-in Au Pair. As I have mentioned in my previous Facebook Lives, the best part of being an Au Pair is you’re never alone and the worst part is you’re never alone. It can be a bit scary if you don’t know what you’re doing, right? That’s why it’s important for you to know how to be comfortable being around other people all the time and how you can get the best of our you au pair experience.
If you’re currently looking for a host family, join us on Facebook, Instagram, or register through our website at 99aupairs.com to start finding your perfect host-family today!
9 Replies to “What Is An Au Pair?”
I am willing to apply to this job offer please consider me as your applicant and i seeking a good host..
Hi Ladgrimas, the first step is to register online on 99aupairs.com – we can help you from there 🙂
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