An au pair is in charge of taking care of the children. He or she will get food and accommodation provided by the family free of charge, and a small allowance in addition (sort of pocket money). The family must also allow the au pair time off. During time off, the au pair is free to pursue his or her own interests, for example learning a foreign language. Au pairs are not professional child minders and will not have professional childcare qualifications. As such, they should not be responsible for children under 2 years of age. There are no set conditions, although candidates are likely to be EU citizens between the age of 18 and 27 and are more commonly female than male.
She will have to take care of the children, i.e.:
The family should be prepared to welcome the au pair into the family, remembering that she is not an employee but a home help for the children. Therefore they will make sure that:
It may be wise to register the au pair with the family GP upon her arrival. Her possessions should also be added to the family's the house insurance policy.
If you want to register as an au pair or as a family, you can contact:
You can also consult:
Agencies will usually charge a registration fee to the family, the au pair, or to both parties.