What can be expected from the family?

• A private room of their own.
• Food for every meal time (even if the family are not eating).
• A Bible.
• A bed and a warm supply of bedding.
• Units for storage of personal items.
• Alarm clock to wake in the morning.
• Mirror and Sidelight.
• A welcoming letter from the family.
• Waste paper bin.
• Personal towel and face cloth / a bar of soap.
• A file with weekly plan of daily duties / menus and useful household tips. e.g. Where to find cleaning agents and cloths etc
• Maps of the local area and nearest city or town.
• Train and bus times and local stopping places.
• Local spots of interest to visit.
• Local church venues and meeting time.
• Hairdryer.

Legislation
Au pairs coming to the USA must legally be processed through a legal authorised agency by the USA government. We do this through the auspices of CHI or EXPERT.

Having a Christian girl or boy who sees their mission as coming to help your family for up to a year can be a great blessing. A relationship of this kind can be a lifelong experience.  Having an au pair is not like having a cleaner or cook or paid worker, it is offering a sharing of cultural and Christian experience. We specialize in matching Christian Au Pairs from Europe or Brazil to American families where they are able to work and serve; and where they can benefit from the hospitality and church life of the family.

What does the word 'au-pair' mean?

The word is a French term and literally means 'on equal terms'. An au pair is a young adult (male or female) who comes to America to increase their understanding of the English language and American way of life. In return for living in a family the young adult helps with the housework and with the children. They are not qualified domestic workers and therefore high standards of work should not be expected. They are generally helpful and willing to learn. Some may need help for the first few days until they become familiar with your routines. It is recommended that you write down a list of the things you require the Au pair to do so there are no misunderstandings about the duties expected and hours required. Like an older sibling, the Au pair is included in family activities, unlike an ‘employee’ or a ‘servant’ who may be excluded from family meals, holiday celebrations and other activities. They are given a room of their own and full board and weekly pocket money. Please also remember that an Au pair should have their own bedroom with a bed, wardrobe, a desk or table for studying. Under no circumstances should an Au pair be made to share a bedroom with children or have their room used as a child’s playroom during the daytime. It is a place for privacy and quiet and this should be made quite clear to any family member.

What can an au pair do?

The au pair is expected to work for no more than 45 hours per week with 1.5 days per week completely free. The work includes such things as washing, ironing, light housework (vacuuming, dusting),etc. But should be mainly childcare.

What is their role in the family?

An au pair should live with, eat with and share in the aspects of social life within the family. It is important that they have the opportunity to communicate in English. They will be able to speak (and understand) English to an acceptable standard. Many Au pairs will want to attend classes but this should be at a mutually convenient time for both family and Au Pair, either daytime or evening classes. The family might offer to help an au pair with expenses. If you require the Au pair to drive, then you must take time to ‘train’ the Au pair to drive in the USA before allowing time alone in the vehicle.  All vehicle costs e.g petrol and insurance must be paid for by the family.

USA