Broaden horizon
Our au pair program not only offers affordable childcare solution, but also the valuable cultural exchange. By hosting an au pair, families experience not only flexible and reliable childcare but also an enriching cultural experience. Our host families appreciate the opportunity to provide their children with a broader worldview and to learn from the culture and customs of their au pair.
Cultural exchange
The goal of the au pair's stay in the Netherlands is to learn more about Dutch society and culture. The au pair, between 18 and 25 years old, will live with the host family and participate in daily family life. In this way, both the au pair and the host family can teach each other about their culture, language, norms, and values.
The rules regarding this cultural exchange are set by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and the International Au Pair Association (IAPA), ensuring that the experience is carefully regulated and standardised.
What do our host families value most?
- An au pair shares a different language, stories, and songs in their native tongue, adding a multicultural touch to the children's learning process. The bookshelf is now adorned with stories from Germany, Italy, France, and Australia, and it has become a tradition to exchange international treats on birthdays, with goodies sent from Italy and France. Our weekly meals have expanded to include culinary delights from various countries.
- Lifetime Friendships An au pair truly becomes part of the family, often maintaining contact with the children and the host family for many years. It's heartwarming to see your au pair participating as a family member—cheering at the children's football and hockey matches and showing genuine interest in the kids. The children love having the au pair around! Whether it is for the Year 6 musical or an important dance performance, the au pair is always there.
- Our family now makes trips to the countries of our au pairs, allowing the children to see and experience firsthand what the au pair has taught them. Visits to places like the Efteling, Keukenhof, and museums have become a tradition with each au pair. These outings are fantastic for the children and make for fun family trips! Family holidays to the South of France have also become more special with the au pair accompanying us, as the au pair entertains the children and teaches them about French culture.
- The host parents are keen to spend time training the au pair. This not only helps them get to know the au pair well but also contributes to a successful au pair program with open communication and support. The family often envisions their own children becoming au pairs in the future, inspired by the wonderful experiences they've had.
- The au pair program combines cultural exchange with practical support, making host families very enthusiastic about the complete package.