Au Pairs are just glorified babysitters: Au Pairs aren’t fancy babysitters. They
are more like extended family members who do more than just watch the kids. They
pitch in with childcare, help around the house, and sometimes even assist with
educational activities. Many Au Pairs become part of the family and stay in touch
over the years!
Au Pairs are all young women: Although most Au Pairs are young women, the
program is open to men as well. The Au Pair demographic is becoming more
diverse, welcoming participants from different countries, backgrounds, and genders.
Au Pairs can be compensated with “pocket money”:
Canada does not have an official Au Pair program therefore all Au Pairs must be
paid at least minimum wage. Paying your Au Pair “pocket money” is in
contravention of your provincial/territorial Employment Act.
Au Pairs are only for wealthy families: Hosting an Au Pair does require some
financial investment, but it can be a budget-friendly childcare option compared to
alternatives like daycare or hiring a nanny, especially for families with several
children. Au Pairs must earn at least minimum wage in the province or territory
they work in.
Au Pairs are only for families who need full-time childcare: Au Pairs aren’t just
for families requiring full-time childcare. They can also work part-time, offering
flexibility for families with diverse childcare needs. Whether it’s just a few hours a
day or specific days of the week, Au Pairs can adapt to various schedules.
Au Pairs are not qualified: Even though Au Pairs may not hold official childcare
certifications, many have practical experience, like babysitting or serving as camp
counselors. If you have found your Au Pair through a reputable agency, they
undergo pre-arrival training and usually receive continuous support and guidance
during their stay in Canada.
