What is an au pair and how do you find one?
For many, the terms "au pair" and "nanny" are often used as the same, which can lead to confusion. However, it is important to understand the difference between these two roles.
Meaning of a nanny:
A nanny (also known as a "manny" for men) is a professional who takes care of children. Most have specific qualifications in childcare and several years of experience. A babysitter is often a younger person without relevant work experience, who enjoys looking after your children in their spare time when parents want an evening out.
Meaning of an au pair:
An au pair is a young person from abroad who comes to live with a Dutch family with the goal of gaining a cultural experience while helping with the care of the children. Au pairs do not have professional training in childcare and have limited experience. Au pairs are motivated to improve their English language skills and to live in a Dutch family. The term 'au pair' comes from French and literally means 'on equal terms'. Although it is now used primarily as a noun, its original meaning reflects why choosing an au pair is so important. They truly become part of the family and are considered a full family member.
Where do au pairs come from?
Au pairs come from all over the world! We have au pairs from Europe, as well as from non-European countries. Popular countries where our au pairs come from include Italy, France, Australia, and South Africa. Many au pairs take a gap year to work as an au pair and then travel around Europe or explore more of the Netherlands.
What does an au pair receive?
An au pair is provided with room and board by the host family, having their own bedroom and receiving 3 meals a day, 7 days a week. In return, the au pair offers up to 30 hours of personal childcare per week.
What does an au pair do?
The primary responsibility of an au pair is the care of the children. Their daily tasks typically include waking the children in the morning and helping them get ready for school. Au pairs can prepare meals for the children, drop them off and pick them up, do light household chores such as tidying up the children's room or kitchen. Additionally, au pairs organise fun activities, take the children on outings, and assist with school tasks. In the evening, the au pair can help with reading, bathing, or putting the children to bed. The au pair has at least 2 days off per week.
An au pair is part of the family
An au pair becomes part of the family and will live with you for an extended period, becoming a genuine family member. It’s important to find an au pair with whom you feel comfortable and who truly fits within your family.
How do you find an au pair?
There are various places where you might find an au pair, such as through Facebook groups or job websites. However, finding the perfect match is not as simple as it sounds. When you look for an au pair through a recognised organisation, such as Au Pair Holland, you know that all au pairs have been screened and meet the requirements set by, among others, the IND and IAPA to ensure the cultural exchange is maintained. These au pairs come to the Netherlands with the right motives and are eager to learn more about the culture and language. If conflicts or disagreements arise, we are here to mediate between you and the au pair. We support both the host family and the au pair throughout the entire au pair program. Therefore, we recommend always using a recognised au pair agency to manage unforeseen circumstances effectively.
How to choose an au pair organisation?
Choose an au pair organisation where you feel comfortable. This cultural exchange is all about connections and mutual understanding. It is essential to have a partner who not only offers high-quality services but also creates a warm and supportive environment where both host families and au pairs can thrive. Our team is dedicated to ensuring our au pair programs succeed.
Where can au pairs be placed?
We place au pairs throughout the Netherlands! From Zeeland to Groningen and from Amsterdam to Maastricht. If you live in the Netherlands and are considering hosting an au pair, it’s essential to understand the au pair program, which revolves around cultural exchange. Au pairs truly become a part of your family and come to the Netherlands to learn more about another culture and language. It is important to emphasise that an au pair should never be used as a cleaner. Therefore, we thoroughly screen our host families, just as our foreign partners screen our au pairs. Want to know more?
