The Au Pair Program is an educational and cultural exchange program with a child care component, regulated by the U.S. Department of State (DOS). Au pairs come to the United States for one year to provide up to 45 hours of child care per week for their host family while pursuing educational credits. An example of one program that brings au pairs to the United States is the EduCare program. An EduCare participant provides up to 30 hours of child care a week. This program is geared toward families with school age children requiring less care. DOS requires a minimal level of training in child care (8 hours of child safety and 24 hours of child development instruction).
In order to bring an au pair to this country, you need to identify a sponsoring organization that has been authorized by DOS. That organization is responsible for identifying, screening, selecting, and matching au pairs and host families as well as handling logistics such as arranging appropriate visas and travel and monitoring the arrangement for compliance with DOS regulations. Although DOS authorizes these sponsoring organizations to conduct au pair programs and audits their performance, the responsibility for choosing the right organization rests solely with the host family.
As host family, you must do your homework. You should contact several organizations and interview families who have participated in their au pair program. Be sure you understand your responsibilities, what to expect from an au pair, and the organization’s contract.
The au pair program presents a wonderful opportunity for a mutually rewarding cultural exchange. As with any child care option, it is important to ask questions and carefully monitor the quality of care your child receives.
