Au Pair Programme America (USA)

 

Duties

As an au pair, you are primarily responsible for looking after the children. Besides childcare, helping with the household chores forms part of your duties. Clarify with your host family what your exact duties as an au pair would be. It is also recommended that these duties are well defined in the au pair contract. You should also have a look at our page Do not forget: contract, insurance, & Co.

Pocket money

In the USA, au pairs receive a weekly pocket money of 195.75 US dollars.

Board and lodging

Besides the pocket money, you will receive free board and lodging. You are still entitled to free board and lodging in cases of illness and during your holiday.

Working hours

In the USA, au pairs normally work 45 hours per week. However, you should not work more than 10 hours per day.

Time off/ holiday

You are entitled to 1.5 free days per week, as well as 1 free weekend per month. Your free weekend starts on Friday evening and ends on Monday morning.

You are entitled to 2 weeks holiday (= 10 work days) provided that you are placed as an au pair for an entire year.

Childcare courses

Prior to your placement as an au pair, you should complete a „Child Safety“ (at least 8 hours) and „Child Development“ training (at least 24 hours). It is also obligatory to attend further courses in the USA. Your host family bears up to 500 USD of the cost per year required for academic course work.

Language course

Some agencies offer language courses for au pairs. Taking part in these courses is compulsory in some cases.

Contract termination

Please turn to one of the 14 US designated agencies for more information about contract termination and notice of termination.

Additional information

The US Department of State offers some information for au pairs in the USA online.

More information for au pairs about the host country America (USA):

• Quick Check for au pairs
• How do I get to the USA?
• Do not forget: contract, insurance & Co.

More information for host families in America (USA)

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[Last update: September 2011]