Being an Au Pair in America can be a fantastic experience. The program offers young individuals from foreign countries a unique opportunity to live with a host family, immerse themselves in American culture, and provide childcare in exchange for room, board, and a stipend. Originating from the French term meaning “on par” or “equal to,” au pairs typically join families for a specified period, usually 12 months, forming a bond with kids while assisting with childcare duties. This cultural exchange program benefits host families by providing affordable childcare and enriches the lives of au pairs by exposing them to new experiences, language acquisition, and personal growth in a supportive family environment. Additionally, au pairs often have the chance to explore America, forming lasting connections and memories during their stay.
Hosting an Au Pair
The Process of becoming an Au Pair
I am originally from Brazil, and while living in my home country, I was an English and Spanish teacher. I started learning foreign languages at age 8, so I started developing a particular type of love at a young age; once in high school, I already started making plans to live for a short period in Spain to improve my Spanish and in The United States to improve my English skills as well. Even though I was a teacher in Brazil, everything was new in a place where the language spoken was not your mother tongue.
I started my process in early 2019, and that same year, I matched with a fantastic family that, to this day, I keep close to my heart. I was blessed to watch three kids aged 2, 7 and 9 and lived as an Au Pair in Denver. Now, two of them are in college, and it’s unbelievable how time flies by; now I have my kids, and of course, my experience as an au pair made the toddler phase a lot easier as a first-time mom. My journey was a transformative experience filled with adventures, challenges, and invaluable cultural exchange.
The Experience
From the moment I stepped into their home, I became not just an au pair but also a member of their family. My responsibilities extended beyond simply caring for the children; I embraced the role of mentor, friend, and confidant. Whether it was assisting with homework, playtime, or organizing activities, each day brought new opportunities for growth and connection. Those kids were my every day, and now I wish I had had more sleepovers with my host sister and more movie times because even though I spent two years with them, time is too fast, and then you realize that that part of your life is soon to be over once the program approaches its end.
Living in a foreign country presented challenges, from adapting to a new language and customs to navigating unfamiliar surroundings. However, with the support of my host family and fellow au pairs, some of them have become my lifelong friends. I quickly acclimated to my new environment. Through shared experiences and meaningful conversations, I gained a deeper understanding of American culture while sharing aspects of my heritage. Although I can never forget how homesick I was during my first two months, and without the support of my mom and host family, the feeling of missing my family and friends could have become more robust and impacted my au pair year.
My time as an au pair in 2010 has left an unforgettable mark on my life, shaping me into a more resilient, open-minded, and culturally aware individual. It was more than just a job; it was an immersive journey of self-discovery, true friends, and unforgettable memories that continue to influence me today.
Host Families
Host families play a crucial role in the cultural exchange with au pairs, fostering mutual respect, learning, and growth. They come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire to enrich family life by hosting a young person from another country. This decision is often driven by the need for flexible childcare and a desire to expose children to different cultures and languages. By welcoming an au pair, families gain more than just childcare; they form meaningful connections and lasting bonds. They provide support and guidance to help their au pairs adjust to their new environment and embrace local customs and traditions.
Hosting an au pair also cultivates global awareness within the household as family members learn to appreciate language, cuisine, and cultural differences. Through shared experiences, the host family and the au pair gain valuable insights into each other’s cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding. By hosting an au pair, families contribute to a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange. They open their hearts and homes, creating lasting memories and connections that transcend borders. This unique experience enriches the family’s cultural understanding and appreciation, making their home a hub of global learning.
Agencies
I was an au pair through Au Pair in America, and I loved my whole experience with them from start to end. They were clear about the experience, what to expect, the responsibility of watching kids, and the cultural enrichment throughout the program. I also have four close friends who went through them and matched with amazing families with whom they have a great relationship. Au Pair in America is my number one choice, but there are two other big agencies, Cultural Care and Au Pair Care. There are many smaller agencies, so look through them; maybe try to find Moms Groups on Facebook and other host families so they can share their experiences with you to make your decision easier.
I always tell future host moms and au pairs to ask many questions, talk on the phone several times, and make at least one video call before matching with a host family or au pair. There are many details that you need to be transparent to future au pairs ahead of time for a successful year on both sides; also, au pairs need to be clear and not just worry about matching fast with a host family. Everyone wants to have a good year and enjoy the experience to the fullest, while au pairs provide excellent childcare.
The Process of becoming an Au Pair
I had the best time as an au pair and I am so grateful for it, cared for my host kids like my own, made friends, travelled during my vacation and explored lots of places on my free time. Just make to write down some questions before interviews so you can start on the right path to an outstanding experience.
I love talking about my experience and could write a book about it. If you’re interested in hosting an au pair, please get in touch with each agency you have in mind. This first step will help you decide which agency to use. I am also a family, child, and senior photographer. Are you looking for a photographer?! Please take a look at my website, and let’s chat!
