What is an au pair?

The au pair plays a vital role in supporting the demanding needs of the family and assists the parents in finding a suitable balance between career demands and parenting in a relaxed environment. The au pair usually forms part of the family and a very special bond, relationship and friendship develops between the children and the au pair. The au pair will care for your children in their home environment, ensuring that all of their needs are seen to. The au pair’s availability is matched to the family’s requirements.

The au pair’s duties are usually made up as follows:

• Supervision and care of your children
• Transporting your children to and from school and extra-mural activities.
• Plan and organise meals for the family
• Assist with homework
• Plan playful and educational activities
• Do the weekly grocery shopping for the household
• Organise any other household staff
• Babysit during the evenings
• Run various errands for the family
• Assist with light household chores relating to the children