Looking for a reliable childcare solution that won’t break the bank? Consider hosting an Au Pair!
Au Pairs are young women and men that come to Canada on a Working Holiday Visa to experience the different culture, the beautiful country, and life in a Canadian family. They live in your home and provide part-time – full-time childcare for your kids. Check out some of the benefits of hiring an Au Pair below:
Benefits of hiring an Au Pair in 2023
Flexibility
Unlike other forms of childcare, Au Pairs provide busy parents with flexibility that fits their schedule. They are available for split shifts, early morning care, your regular 9 – 5 schedule, and more! If your schedule changes weekly, they are able to accommodate – as long you discuss it previously. This is a big lifesaver for parents who struggle to find childcare at certain times of the day/evening.
Home Based Care
You don’t have to worry about drop offs and pickups or leaving your child in an unfamiliar place when you have an Au Pair. Your children are cared for in their own home environment and receive the full attention of the caregiver, with all the options and amenities of your house at their disposal: they can spend an afternoon cooking or baking with your kids, playing in the backyard, or building a fort and tidying it up after.
Affordability
Fees for nannies vary widely and babysitters can only provide situational support; Au Pairs across Canada make minimum wage, and because they are live-in, you can deduct room and board. In addition, you do not have to cover the travel costs of your Au Pair arriving in (or leaving) Canada and because they are here on a Working Holiday Visa, they do not require an LMIA or a Job Offer.
Cultural Exchange
Just as the Au Pair will be discovering Canadian culture, your family will learn more about your Au Pair’s home country. Your children will become culturally aware, learn about the world and may even have the opportunity to pick up a few phrases in another language. Having these experiences and exposure will be invaluable to your children and will assist in giving them a well-rounded view of the world.
A Reliable Addition to the Family
Your Au Pair will become part of your family. They will be a big sister/brother figure to your children, but also a reliable young adult that you can enjoy spending time with. Many families bond so well with their Au Pair that they keep in touch after their year in Canada is done and enjoy a life-long friendship.
