Au pairs often feel like extended family members. They become part of their host families’ lives and participate in traditions such as Halloween and Thanksgiving and building snowmen in winter.
Au pair participants find new interests and activities. They learn about different sports, theatre, dance and nightclubs.
Sometimes, au pairs use their time abroad to support causes they care about. Their hosts, Local Childcare Consultants and fellow au pairs can inspire them to do good in their communities.
You’ll be a part of a family.
The first few weeks, months or even years as an au pair can be a roller coaster ride. It’s normal to go through a period of adjustment and culture shock as you leave behind your home country, family and friends to start a new life in America. But, unlike simply travelling, being an au pair provides you with stability and purpose. You’ll receive room and board and a monthly allowance to save money on travel, nights out or personal items.
Living in the same household as a family also allows you to become a part of their family and community. You can get involved in your local area by volunteering, attending events or joining a sports team or music group. Many au pairs find that these activities help to keep them centred and happy in their year abroad and often make them feel like they have a home away from home.
The close, loving relationships that many au pairs in America develop with their host families give them a unique sense of belonging and make the experience one they’ll fondly remember. It’s a feeling that can’t be replicated, and it’s not uncommon for au pairs to maintain these close connections long after their program year is over.
You’ll learn a new language.
Being an au pair allows you to immerse yourself in a different language and culture. It’s a learning experience like no other, which you’ll likely carry into your professional life. In addition to improving your English, you’ll learn valuable cross-cultural communication skills to help you stand out to future employers.
Au pairs from all over the world come to America to live and work with their host families, providing live-in childcare to the children of their host parents. The close relationship that au pairs form with their hosts helps make the transition to a new country and language easier. Many host families take special steps to welcome their au pairs, decorating bedrooms or planning fun outings to help them feel at home.
The close connection that au pairs have with their hosts also makes it easy for them to ask questions and seek guidance. Many au pairs discover their host families are mentors, helping them navigate life’s challenges abroad and boosting their confidence.
As a bonus, most au pairs can travel during their 1- to 2-year stay in the United States. They can often do this with the support of their Local Childcare Consultants or in conjunction with their host families.
You’ll make new friends.
When you’re an Au Pair, you’ll likely find a group of people from all over the world who have also made the same decision to live abroad. This allows you to meet people from different cultures and create new friendships. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a great way to expand your horizons and make lifelong friends.
Many au pairs are still in touch with their host families years after they’ve left the program. This is because the relationships you build with your host family as an Au Pair are unique compared to other caregivers, such as nannies or babysitters.
This supportive connection teaches children social-emotional skills such as empathy and compassion and helps them to adapt to a new culture. Au pairs also form close-knit bonds with their local community, often establishing friendships with residents and fellow au pairs in the area.
This personal interaction encourages cultural diversity and acceptance, which all communities should strive for. Your Local Coordinator will be able to provide you with information about groups and activities that other au pairs in your area attend. They may also know of some au pairs who have taken the same class, and they can introduce you to them.
You’ll get paid.
Not everyone is an au pair because they love children; that’s okay. Some people want to learn a new language, explore their professional options or take some time away from their day-to-day lives. No matter your reasons, becoming an au pair is a way to have some adventure and make memories that you’ll look back on throughout the rest of your life.
As an au pair, you’ll get paid for your time with the family. You’ll receive a weekly paycheck, holiday allowance and other benefits. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to travel during your free time.
One of the best things about being an au pair is that you’ll have a chance to see the world and become more familiar with its culture and customs. And, of course, you’ll also be able to earn some extra cash to help you afford your trip.
As an au pair, you’ll be exempt from social security and medicare taxes but must pay federal income tax. You may also be required to file state taxes depending on where you live and the laws in your state.
Conclusion
Becoming an au pair allows young people to temporarily join an American family while exploring a new culture. It’s an unforgettable chance to improve language skills, make international friends, and mentor children. Au pairs form uniquely close bonds with hosts that often last a lifetime.
Of course, adapting to any new country has growing pains. But host families help au pairs navigate local life and feel at home. Built-in community activities also connect au pairs to share laughs and advice.
The au pair experience gifts personal growth, precious memories and expanded perspectives. If you crave adventure at this stage in life, it’s a smart way to spread your wings safely. You’ll gain confidence while earning income abroad in one rich year. Then return home more seasoned, with captivating stories that will inspire others!
