When discussing the Au Pair program, a future Host Family often focuses on the benefits for parents and the family itself. People appreciate the program's flexibility, low price (compared to many other childcare options), and the possibility of cultural exchange for the whole Host Family. But what about your kids? Do they benefit from having an Au Pair more than from being watched by a local nanny or visiting daycare centres? Let’s take a closer look at how an Au Pair can make a real long-term difference in your kid’s life.

1. Language Development

Do you know that a lot of studies prove that children learn languages best when they hear and practice them in everyday situations? Instead of formal lessons, together with your Au Pair, language learning will happen through playing, meals, and a simple daily conversation. This will help your kids absorb new words and sounds without much effort. The research also shows that early exposure to a second language will improve kids’ cognitive skills and memory as well as boost their problem-solving abilities. Even if you are not planning on raising a fully bilingual child, hearing and using a new language at a young age will build a strong base for their future learning.

2. Cultural Awareness

Every Au Pair brings a piece of her home country into your child’s life. This cultural exchange will happen in a very natural way: your kids will get familiar with a new way of life through stories, games, songs, or maybe even through cooking and tasting traditional meals together with your Au Pair. Studies show that children who were exposed to different cultures, when growing up, are more likely to develop an open-minded and accepting attitude towards people from other places and cultures. They learn that different traditions and beliefs are not obstacles and can still lead to strong connections and relationships. This understanding will make it easier for your kids to relate to others and adapt to new experiences when they grow older. 

3. Active Caregiver

Most Au Pairs make a decision to be a part of the program in their early 20s, which means they have plenty of energy and enthusiasm to actively engage with kids. Your Au Pair will most likely be more involved in playtime, whether it’s doing some sport, playing games, or crafting. This will definitely make a big difference in your kids’ everyday experiences, as they will get to share activities with someone who has enough energy to participate. Besides, your Au Pair can turn kids’ everyday routines, for example, getting dressed, washing, or having a meal, into fun games, which will make them more engaged, cooperative, and excited about daily activities.

4. Relatable Role Model

Due to the Au Pair’s age, your kids will likely see them more as an older sibling than a strict authority. They will look up to and confide in the Au Pair because they will consider him or her not only a caregiver but also a friend. Au Pairs understand kids’ world: they know what games children play, which pop stars and celebrities kids follow, and what difficulties they might face at school and with their peers. This means your Au Pair will give more relatable and less patronizing advice to your kid, and can encourage good habits, like being responsible and polite, in a way that does not feel forced. Children are more likely to listen to and learn from a person they admire and feel connected to.

5. Consistent Childcare

Unlike daycare centres, where staff often change and work in shifts, an Au Pair offers a more consistent daily routine within your home. Having the same caregiver each day will provide your children with a sense of predictability and will be beneficial for their mental health. This will also allow them to form a close emotional connection with their Au Pair, which is important for their emotional well-being and will help them feel safe, understood, and supported.​

While the Au Pair program is often seen as a solution for parents, its unique benefits for kids are just as significant. The bonds formed during this time can last for years and many Host kids stay in touch with their former Au Pairs even after they’ve grown up. The experience of having an Au Pair isn’t just about convenience: when families open their homes to an Au Pair, they’re giving their children an opportunity to learn and grow in a multicultural environment and create lifelong connections.