One of the unique benefits of hosting an au pair is the assistance they can provide with child-related chores, making it easier for parents to manage their busy schedules. If you're looking to balance work and family life, it’s worth exploring how to find an au pair who can become a valuable support system for your household.
But what does an au pair do exactly? Beyond childcare, they offer a variety of services that make daily life more manageable for parents.
What au pairs can do around the house
Au pairs are permitted to assist with household tasks related directly to the care of your children. According to Cultural Care’s guidelines, these include:
Doing the children’s laundry
Helping to tidy children's rooms
Preparing children's meals
These tasks are considered appropriate as long as they fall within the program’s 45-hour workweek and 10-hour daily limits. Additionally, au pairs are responsible for keeping their own living space tidy. This includes:
Cleaning their own room and bathroom (if applicable)
Putting dirty dishes in the dishwasher
Keeping any car they have access to clean
What au pairs cannot do around the house
Au pairs are not expected to take on tasks beyond what you would reasonably ask of a family member or child in the home. These responsibilities should be left to professionals or other household members:
Cleaning the entire house
Preparing meals for the whole family
Doing laundry for the whole family
Cleaning out the basement or garage
Doing yard work
Feeding or walking pets
If an au pair offers to help with any of these tasks, it’s acceptable for them to lend a hand on occasion, but it’s not appropriate to require or regularly expect them to do so. Even offering extra pay for these tasks is discouraged, regardless of their willingness.
The "extra household help" you can expect
As a member of the household, your au pair may occasionally pitch in with shared chores, much like any other family member. While not part of their regular duties, your au pair might sometimes help by:
Loading and unloading the dishwasher
Wiping down kitchen counters
Taking out the trash
Vacuuming shared spaces
Picking up groceries
Helping fold laundry
Remember, these tasks are not intended as regular assignments, but rather as shared responsibilities among all household members.
Tips and reminders
To make sure your au pair’s responsibilities are clear, consider the following tips:
Set expectations early - If your household has specific habits around cleanliness or organization, discuss this during the matching process to ensure a good fit.
Write down expectations - Don’t assume your au pair will know what’s expected. A written list of household help for the week can be helpful.
Provide guidance - Walk through each task together so your au pair understands what’s needed and how you’d like it done.
Prioritize quality time with kids - Keep in mind that while chores are helpful, your au pair’s primary focus should be on caring for your children.
Setting clear expectations around household help can ensure a balanced and fulfilling experience for everyone involved. With open communication, your au pair can become a valuable and supportive part of your home life, while keeping the focus where it belongs—on caring for your children.