Tag: au pair

How to Choose an Au Pair

Choosing an au pair can seem like a very daunting task, especially to first-time host families.  There is a wealth of information online about the important points to think about when hiring an au pair, which although helpful, can also be rather daunting.

In this article we will attempt to condense this information and make it easier for you to make this important decision.

Talk to Other Host Families
This should be your first port of call when starting the process of looking for a suitable au pair for your family.  There is no substitute for hearing the experiences of somebody who has been there.  Many host families would have hired several au pairs over the years, and as a result will likely have lots of nuggets of wisdom and tips to share with you.

The easiest (and usually most practical) way to connect with other host families is via the internet.  There are many forums online that one can join in order to ask questions and network with other families who have been in the same position as you.

Au Pair Agencies
There are hundreds of au pair agencies advertised and just choosing one can be a daunting task alone.  The first point covered – talking to other host families – will be your best bet for finding an au pair agency with a good reputation.  Word of mouth is one of the most reliable measures of great service, after all.  UK host families can also make use of the au pair agency directory at the British Au Pair Agency Association (BAPAA) to help them choose a reputable agency.

Consider Your Needs
When choosing an au pair, you’ll need to think about what would make the most compatible match for you and your children.  Everybody’s needs are different, and au pair agencies can help find a suitable match, but you will need to have a clear idea in mind of what you are looking for.  Remember, au pairs are not permitted to have sole charge of children under the age of two, and some might have very limited childcare experience.  The level of childcare you require should be take into consideration when ‘vetting’ au pairs for their suitability – for example, the age of your children and how independent they are (ie how much actual ‘care’ will be required, rather than mostly supervision).

Another thing to consider is whether or not the au pair can drive.  If the au pair will be required to do school runs and other trips, you will want to ensure that the au pair you choose is able to drive. Remember, it is the responsibility of the host family to make sure the au pair is insured to drive the family car, and to provide the fuel for work-related trips.

Get to Know Them
Emailing, talking on the phone and using Skype are all great ways to spend some time getting to know your prospective au pair before you take the plunge and send them a written offer to consider.  Choosing an au pair is a big decision – as is choosing a host family – so get to know each other as much as you can.

Au Pair Etiquette

An au pair is different from other childcare providers, and as such they should be treated so.  In this article we will go over some of the rules and etiquette you should keep in mind if you choose to utilise the services of an au pair.

 

The au pair is part of your family

She is living in your home and you are paying her a wage, so you are her employer. However, the au pair should be viewed as part of your family rather than a separate employee.  Au pairs are not paid especially well, and part of their payment is the chance to be integrated into family life and the opportunity to be exposed to the English life and language.  Involve them in family life and treat them as a member of your own family.  Don’t bark orders at her, or shout at her if you are upset with something she has done – sit down with her and discuss any issues you’re having instead just as you would any other person. Au pairs are just as deserving of respect as anyone else.

 

The au pair is not your skivvy

As previously mentioned, au pairs are only paid a pocket money wage on top of their board, and as such they should not have unreasonable demands made upon them.  The responsibilities of your au pair should be clearly laid out at the start so she knows what is expected of her, and you should respect the boundaries that you have both laid in place – for example, if she has the weekends off, she should not be expected to watch the children or help around the house.  She may offer if she sees you need help, but it should never be requested.  Additionally, be sure not to treat her like a ‘cinderella’ – only light housework duties and childcare for children over the age of two should be expected, and again, these responsibilities should be clearly laid out and agreed upon.  If you find extra duties come up, discuss them with her and see if she would be happy to take them on in return for a pay rise.

 

The au pair has other responsibilities

Au pairs are primarily in the country to learn about the culture and the language.  The au pair will be attending some kind of language school and will need time to study alone.  Au pairs can legally work up to 35 hours a week, unless they are from Romania or Bulgaria in which case they may only be on duty for 25 hours each week.  They must have two days off each week, and at least one full weekend off every month.

 

Respect is a two-way street

It is not unreasonable to expect a good work ethic and a cheerful disposition from your au pair.  If you treat her with the respect she deserves, she will likely be very happy in your home and happy to carry out her duties.  Remember, clear communication at all times is key.  This can be difficult if the au pair only has a limited understanding of English, but it’s possible – and it will become easier as time goes on, and the au pair becomes more fluent.