The European tradition of “Au Pair” has existed for years and has proven to be an effective way for families to get quality child care while expanding intercultural understanding.
The word means “on par” in French which represents one of the primary objectives of our program--to provide “equal” cultural exchange for Au Pairs and American families. Just as Europeans have learned about their neighbors through Au Pair exchanges, Americans now have a world of opportunity to enrich their children’s education and cultural understanding while providing Au Pairs from around the world with the chance to work and learn about the United States. |
|
The Match Process
Once the applications for the Au Pair and Host Family have been processed, we review Host Family needs and select suitable Au Pairs from our applicant pool. The Host Family will be able to evaluate the applicants and contact those that interest them. Regulations require that the Host Family personally interview possible Au Pairs by phone and have at least two conversations prior to choosing an Au Pair. Once the Host Family selects an Au Pair, Au Pair Foundation makes arrangements for the J-1 visa, air travel and training. |
|
The Benefits
Once a match is found the Host Family can look forward to 45-hours of affordable childcare 5 1/2 days per week. Just think of the peace of mind you'll have knowing that your children are being cared for by a professional in the comfort of your own home. You won't have to rush home or forego important events because your daycare is closing and you have to pick up your children.
No more fears of getting behind because of sudden illness which requires you to stay home with your children. How many times have you wanted to go out for dinner but couldn’t find a sitter? Your Au Pair is your personal assistant that will help ease stress and allow you to spend more quality time with your children. Having time for yourself is important and allows you to be more child-focused so you can concentrate on the important things as your Au Pair takes care of the daily routine. |
|
The Benefits of Language Exchange
At Au Pair Foundation, we believe the cultural exchange is a two-way street. Our Au Pairs are pre-tested to assure English competency. However, one of the motivating factors for these young people to participate in the program is to hone their language skills. While the predominant language in the household should be English, Au Pairs can teach your children their native language through activities and songs. Au Pairs are encouraged to teach their native languages to the children if the host parents desire.
The benefits to being exposed to other languages are proven to be especially beneficial if done before the age of 10. |
|
Au
Pair Foundation Training
At Au Pair Foundation, our mission is to
maintain the highest standards in selection
and training. Our Au Pairs are trained in stress management, child and infant
development and household safety.
After the training, all Au Pairs receive
American Red Cross
Certification. Aside from the training,
Au Pairs have a chance to meet other Au
Pairs and enjoy recreational and orientation
activities which will prepare them for
life in America and in your home. |
| |
|
|
 |
This 12 month program is administered by Au Pair Foundation and authorized by the U.S. Department of State. |
Au Pair Foundation • Au Pair Requirements: |
• High School Diploma and preferably University Education
• English speaking and listening comprehension competence
• Previous childcare experience
• Excellent health as verified by a licensed medical doctor
• Be between 18 and 26 years of age
• Provide written character and employment references
• Pass a Psychometric Evaluation
•Complete Au Pair Foundation Training |
|
| Host Family Requirements: |
• Willingness to accept the Au Pair as member of the family and not a domestic servant
• Completed application
• Interview with an Au Pair Foundation
Community Representative
• A private room for the Au Pair
• At least two character references
• Financial resources to cover the weekly stipend of $157.95 or $118.46 (depending on program)
• Abide by State Department Regulations
|
|
| Support Throughout The Year |
The first few months are especially important for the success of this cultural exchange. Your Community Representative will lead Au Pairs and Host Families through Orientation and Communication Activities. Getting off to a good start and establishing open communication will ensure a successful year. In the beginning many questions will arise and finding the right answer is just a small part of what the Community Representative will help you do.
Throughout the 12 month program, Au Pairs and families receive continuous support from our field staff and headquarters. Monthly contact is maintained througout the year by Community Representatives making sure that participants are satisfied with the program. If differences arise, Community Representatives play an important role in the mediation process interfacing with Au Pairs and Host Families to find solutions. |
|
|
|
| Host Family Resource Center |
Click here to enter |
|
|
.png)
