ALT-4 Nonprofit Service Sector
Providing services as a live-in nanny or au pair requires so much more than just babysitting. An au pair typically comes to a family with training and education in the care and training of children and they are viewed as a valuable member of the family. Since the au pair actually lives with the family, they share in more than just the childcare responsibilities.
Making a decision to become an au pair requires careful consideration and a clear understanding of the responsibilities. The following is a list of general expectations of an au pair, although specific responsibilities will vary by family and you'll need to clarify expectations before accepting any job.
Responsibilities may include:
Caring for the child(ren) as your primary responsibility is your most important job. You'll be expected to put the children to bed, awaken them, dress them, and help them prepare for school or other activities in which they are enrolled and involved. Your job includes driving them to and from their activities and helping them with projects or homework when needed.
You'll be responsible for bathing children, reading to them, playing with them, and entertaining them through constructive and positive activities which build skills and learning. Part of your job is to support their growth and development in a positive way.
Meals that are nutritious and healthy are mostly the responsibility of the au pair. You will be asked to prepare meals or assist the parents/guardians prepare meals. This includes preparation of snacks and packing lunches for school.
Light housework is typically included in responsibilities of an au pair. Vacuuming, dusting, making beds, washing and folding clothes, and other general housework is expected.
You may be asked to shop for the child(ren) or family. You will be given a shopping list and a budget to manage for this purpose.
In some situations, you may be expected to take children to doctor's appointments for well or sick care visits. The child's parents/guardian will have to legally authorize you to handle this type of medical care for the child.
Some families may ask you to baby-sit children in the evenings or during your off-hours. This is usually arranged well in advance to accommodate schedules.
Au pairs are highly qualified, skilled individuals who provide a much needed and highly valued service for families. Although au pairs live with the family, they also need to take time for rest and relaxation for themselves. As an au pair, you will have designated hours and times that you work for the family. You will also have designated time off to do as you wish. It is important that you take this time to re-energize and refresh yourself so that you do the best job possible with your childcare responsibilities.
Serving as an au pair can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience as you take part in the growth and development of children. It provides you with an inviting family environment where your skills and experience are highly valued. Au pairs build long-term, lasting relationships as they become valuable members of the family.
