When people hear the word “Au Pair” they often have misconceptions of what it truly is. In the U.S. many may be unfamiliar with the Au Pair program and may only know what they have seen on TV or in movies.
The word “Au Pair” is described as a young person from another country who lives with a Host Family and provides childcare. However, there are some myths surrounding the program. To help clear up any confusion, we’ve compiled the top 10 myths about the Au Pair program in the U.S.
Top 10 Myths About Au Pairs
1. Myth: Au Pairs are only for the rich and famous
Truth: Au Pairs are surprising affordable, especially when you compare the costs of daycare or nanny in your area. Many families find that hosting an Au Pair has tremendous value and numerous additional benefits, particularly for families with two or more children. You may be surprised to learn many Host Families are middle class families with working parents. Discover just how affordable the Go Au Pair program can be.
2. Myth: Au Pairs are cheap labor
Truth: Some people mistakenly believe that Au Pairs are a source of cheap labor, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Host Families provide room and board for their Au Pair including:
- Housing
- Medical Insurance
- Meals
- Basic household needs
- Education contribution
- Weekly stipend
The stipend Au Pairs receive is typically intended for their own personal spending money. The Au Pair program is centered around cultural exchange, and for many families in the U.S., this adds great value. It’s an opportunity to welcome a new culture into their home while receiving much needed child care.
The benefits Au Pairs gain from the program are truly invaluable, shaping not only their professional skills but also their personal growth in profound ways. Here are some key benefits Au Pairs appreciate:
- Cultural exchange
- Language skills
- Childcare experience
- Travel opportunities
- New friendships
- Independence and life skills
- Personal growth
- Education opportunities
3. Myth: Au Pairs can do anything
Truth: The U.S Au Pair program is governed by regulations set by the Department of State, which both Host Families and Au Pairs must adhere to. These guidelines ensure that Au Pairs focus solely on caring for the children in their household. They are not permitted to perform tasks like cleaning the entire house, preparing family meals, or caring for pets, among other non childcare duties.
4. Myth: Au Pairs can work whenever you need them
Truth: Some families may assume an Au Pair lives with them so they are available to work any hours, at any time. However, this isn’t the case. There are strict regulations regarding working hours. Standard Au Pairs can only work up to 10 hours a day and no more than 45 hours per week. Additionally, they are not allowed to work overtime or receive overtime pay, so it’s important to stay within these guidelines.
Au Pairs are meant to be part of the family, but they also need time off to explore U.S. culture, attend classes, and socialize. Balancing work and personal time is key to a successful experience for both Au Pair and Host Family.
5. Myth: All Au Pairs are from France
Truth: While the word “Au Pair” is French the Au Pair program in the U.S. welcomes Au Pairs from all over the world. Go Au Pair specifically has Au Pairs from:
- Central America
- South America
- China
- Madagascar
- South Africa
- Poland
- Germany
- Brazil
- Uganda
- And more!
Interested in Hosting an Au Pair? Learn more about what it’s like to become a Host Family and how the process works. Discover the benefits of live-in childcare, cultural exchange, and personalized support for your family. |
6. Myth: The agency just assigns me an Au Pair
Truth: The relationship between Au Pair and Host Family is a unique and exceptional aspect of the program that truly sets it apart. One key reason for this is our mutual match process. Host Families have the opportunity to search from a diverse pool of Au Pair candidates and interview multiple candidates at a time. Au Pairs can choose whether to accept or decline interviews or a match with families they feel may not be the best fit for them. The mutual match process ensures both Host Family and Au Pair can choose each other, allowing them to start building a connection even before the Au Pair’s arrival.
7. Myth: Au Pairs are professional child care providers
Truth: While Au Pairs are typically not professional childcare providers, they are still qualified to care for children. Au Pairs in the U.S. are required to have childcare experience and meet the minimum requirements set by the Department of State. Before arriving in the U.S., they undergo childcare training that aligns with the typical childcare needs in the country. Au Pairs are dedicated, eager to be part of the family, and genuinely want to help out and build meaningful relationships with their Host Family.
Some Au Pairs may be studying in childcare related fields or have professional child care experience in their home country. However, they are not licensed childcare providers. Despite this, Au Pairs are mature young adults who love spending time with children. They have big dreams and goals, which motivates them to do their best and create a positive experience for both themselves and their Host Family.
8. Myth: I can get an Au Pair without using a sponsoring agency
Truth: As previously mentioned, the Au Pair program is regulated by the Department of State. This means that in order for an Au Pair to obtain a J1 Au Pair visa, they must have a U.S. sponsoring agency. Go Au Pair is one of the designated sponsoring agencies authorized by the U.S. Department of State. Only sponsoring agencies can issue the necessary paperwork for Au Pairs to apply for a visa. This process helps ensure that all participants are monitored according to established standards, allowing them to stay within the program’s guidelines and fully engage in the cultural exchange experience.
Families could try to hire a childcare provider from another country independently, but doing so would lack the protections that the Au Pair program provides for both the family and the Au Pair. The process often involves hiring an attorney, which can be more costly than Au Pair agency fees. Additionally, the visa process is typically more difficult without a sponsoring agency like Go Au Pair and visa denials are more common without a sponsering agency.
9. Myth: Au Pairs are mistreated
Truth: Unfortunately, nothing is flawless, and the Au Pair program is no exception. While some placements may end early for a variety of reasons, it’s important to note that the program is highly regulated to ensure fairness and safety. In the U.S., the Department of State’s regulations, along with the support of the sponsoring agency, help establish clear expectations for both Host Families and Au Pairs from the start.
Clear expectations ensures everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. If any issues arise, sponsoring agencies like Go Au Pair are there to offer guidance and support, helping to resolve any concerns and maintain a positive experience for everyone.
10. Myth: Au Pairs are only here to party and vacation
Truth: This is far from reality. Au Pairs are hardworking, responsible young adults with a genuine passion for caring for children. They join the program for a chance to immerse themselves in the American culture alongside their Host Family. They are eager to learn, experience new things, and build meaningful connections. While part of their experience in the U.S. includes exploring life outside the home, their primary goal is to engage with the culture and contribute to the family dynamic through childcare.
Debunk Au Pair myths by experiencing the Au Pair program yourself
The misconceptions surrounding the Au Pair program are varied but many families find that Au Pairs become invaluable members of their household, enriching their lives with both exceptional childcare and a unique cultural perspective. They not only enhance the lives of their Host Family but they also bring a vibrant cultural exchange to the broader community in the U.S.
Ready to start your cultural exchange journey? Find your perfect Au Pair today and begin creating memories that will enrich your family for years to come.
