Why is it cool to be an au pair? – 7+1 reasons to be an au pair

As a young person, even after high school or university, many of us wonder whether we should try ourselves abroad. The answer is not always clear, there are many doubts and questions. We would like to answer some of them and show you why au pair work is a good thing, what the benefits are and what you can learn from it.

One of the main benefits is learning a language or improving your existing language skills. As a young graduate, whether at university or high school, language classes are expensive, but one of the best ways to gain knowledge is to try and use the language. This is where an au pair programme can help you the most. Knowledge of the language is also very important in later life, and many jobs require at least a communicative level of English, which is best learned by speaking. That’s why we recommend you try your hand at becoming an au pair!

1. Cheap travel, learning

One of the main reasons is that you can travel and learn cheaply, even for free, and find opportunities that you would not find in the job market if you were a beginner here. Travelling abroad, once you’ve got there, is often very cheap, and as far as living there is concerned, you don’t have to worry about the costs, as the basics (accommodation, food) are covered.

2. Learning about the local environment within a country

No matter what the destination, whether it’s a country or a city, you’re sure to travel. This will not only take us to new places, but will also change our ability to fit in, to get to know places and people. We can go to countries or places within countries that we have always wanted to visit.

3. Learning a language

One of the main arguments for working as an au pair is language learning. After all, what better way to learn a language than to use it? Especially with children, whose vocabulary and speaking style is easier and more understandable. In this way we can improve our language skills, and many families even invest in language schools and courses, so that we can pass a language exam! All this can be put to good use in a completely different job at home.

4. New friends, contacts

When choosing an au pair, families are looking for someone who fits into their family pattern, so it is possible that friendships will be made. However, a friendly working environment is definitely important, as you will learn the host family’s lifestyle, rhythm of life and the way the locals think, and in this way you will become more open to the world and more accepting of your surroundings.

5. A taste of the joys and difficulties of parenthood

Not every young person has a younger sibling to look after, and au pair work gives you a chance to try it out. Trying out parenthood, whether or not it comes later, is an interesting experience for all of us. Finding a middle ground between the extremes of “I love children” and “I work with children” is possible through au pair work, as it is challenging but also very rewarding.

6. Skills development

In addition to the day-to-day work and routine, au pairs who work abroad also experience personal development. In addition to childcare and housework, there are various other areas that need to be covered, whether it’s communication or problem solving. Being organised, meeting daily challenges and completing tasks will prepare you to be able to move flexibly, quickly and empathetically in any job in the future.

7. Learning and value creation

Lifelong learning can be the start of an au pair programme, as everyone needs money, and with this job a young person can start to build their own life. A salary that is commensurate with the time you spend working is enough to fulfil your ambitions, but you could also try your luck at university in the country you are studying in!

+1 reason to become an au pair: the children!

This could have been the first reason, obviously, as it’s essential that those who take on this job love children, but often it’s only during or afterwards that we find out how much the childminder has got from the little ones. Although your main job is to raise and look after children, it is not a job, it is a connection. Children can really relate, playing, going to the cinema, going for a walk, learning together will not only define their lives, but yours too!

So, au pair up for work, it could be one of the greatest adventures of your life!

If you would like to receive more information about the services of IJC Jobs and how to participate in the au pair program, visit our website and write to us – we are just a click away.