Choosing the right childcare provider is no easy decision, as there are many options, each with its own set of advantages. One that has been gaining popularity and offers a unique set of benefits is the au pair program.
With an au pair, you get flexible, reliable childcare while introducing your family to new cultures, languages, and customs
However, hosting an au pair also presents certain considerations. Though manageable, they are important to think about before making your decision.
Benefit # 1: Flexibility
One of the standout benefits of au pair childcare is its unbeatable flexibility. Au pairs can provide up to 45 hours of care per week, with a limit of 10 hour per day, all based on a schedule that suits your needs.
This includes early mornings, evenings, and weekends. You can tailor your au pair’s schedule to fit school hours—many au pairs are eager for split shifts—as well as to accommodate summer camps, weekly playdates, and more. Au pairs can also assist with child-related household chores, helping you maximize family time and streamline your daily responsibilities.
Benefit # 2: Competitive cost
A common myth about au pair childcare is that it’s prohibitively expensive. In fact, the cost of hosting an au pair is often more effective than other childcare options, particularly since the cost remains the same regardless of the number of children.
Families pay a fee to the au pair agency and a minimum weekly stipend directly to their au pair. Even when accounting for additional costs, such as car insurance and groceries, the total expense of au pair childcare is often comparable to or less than that of daycare or a nanny.
Benefit # 3: Trust and reliability
An undeniable benefit of hosting an au pair is the immediate level of trust that develops between your family and the au pair. Many Cultural Care host families frequently describe a profound sense of comfort and security in knowing their children are cared for by someone they feel close to and have come to love.
Benefit # 4: Cultural exchange
Last but not least, hosting an au pair offers a wonderful opportunity for your entire family to learn about a new culture. Au pairs are enthusiastic about sharing their home country's cuisine, language, holidays, and customs, while also exploring American culture.
This exchange fosters a broader worldview in your children and helps them become more of a global citizen. It can also inspire your family to develop a renewed appreciation for your own hometown and a desire to explore more of the state and area that you live in.
Consideration #1: Privacy
As with any childcare solution, hosting an au pair comes with its own set of challenges. One potential consideration is the loss of privacy.
Since au pairs live with you as a member of your family, your home will become their home as well. While most families find this trade-off to be manageable or even negligible, it's important to consider how this might impact your family's sense of privacy and comfort.
Consideration #2: Adjustment period
Au pairs are not professionally trained childcare providers and come from a different country, which means that they will need time to adjust to their new responsibilities and surroundings.
The U.S. State Department specifies that an adult must be present with the au pair for the first three days after their arrival, however it typically takes about 3–4 weeks for them to fully settle into their routine and become comfortable in their new role.
Consideration #3: Providing support
Because au pairs are young adults traveling solo to the U.S., they'll need considerable support from their host family, especially at the beginning. You should ask about their day, invite them to join in on family activities, include them during holidays, and provide comfort during times of homesickness.
As your au pair continues to meet up your Local Childcare Coordinator (LCC) and build their own social network, they'll become more independent. However, you'll still need to be there for them. This isn’t necessarily a drawback—supporting a curious and driven young person can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience—but it is an important aspect to consider before deciding to host an au pair.
Consideration #4: Communication
Communication with an au pair can be more challenging than with a childcare provider who was born and raised in the U.S., since English may not be their first language. However, au pairs typically improve their English quickly with practice and support.
The most challenging period is usually at the start, as both you and your au pair are adjusting to each other and the new environment.
As your au pair grows more comfortable and proficient in English, you’ll find that the initial communication challenges fade, leading to a smooth and more rewarding experience for everyone involved.