What Au Pairs Can and Can’t Do - Part 1

The main purpose of the Au Pair Program is to help families and Au Pairs experience cultural exchange. For this reason, there are some rules created by the Department of State to help families and Au Pairs better enjoy the benefits of the program. Here are some easy guidelines to help you understand what Au Pairs can and can’t do during their year:

Au Pairs CAN work up to 45 hours a week but CAN’T work more than 10 hours a day:

Most Au Pairs can work up to 45 hours a week (with the exception of Educare Au Pairs who can only work up to 30 hours a week) To make sure your Au Pair works within her allowed hours it is a good idea to make it clear when the Au Pair is working and when the Au Pair is not working even if they are at home. When your Au Pair is sole responsible for the children, even if the children are taking a nap, for example, they are working and those hours should be counted as his/her daily hours.

Au Pairs CAN be responsible for child care related household task but CAN’T act as the family’s maid:

Tasks like making children’s laundry, preparing and cleaning after children meals or tidying up their room are examples of what your Au Pair can do. Even though many Au Pair are willing and happy to help with family’s meals and make sure the household is in order, Host Families can’t add those tasks as the Au Pair’s responsibilities.

Au Pairs CAN live with pets but CAN’T care for the family’s animals:

Many Au Pairs love pets and even grew up with them back home, 98% of Go Au Pair’s Au Pairs say they are willing to place with a Host Family with pets and many of them are excited to have a pet in their new home. Although Au Pair can to play, pet or feed your pet if they wish to do so, they cannot be required to care and be responsible for them. You Au Pair’s responsibility is child care related errands only.



Posted: 2/16/2012 2:01:04 PM by Site Editor