A successful exchange year begins with the right match between a qualified au pair and a welcoming host family. In order to participate, a family must be:
- Committed to cultural exchange
- Both parents must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents
- The parent(s) or guardian(s) of children requiring up to 45 hours per week of childcare
- Able to provide a private bedroom
- Available to attend orientation meetings and family conferences
Host family commitment
As a Cultural Care host family, you share our commitment to ensuring your au pair’s American experience is as rewarding as possible. You welcome an au pair into your home as a family member and include your au pair in family meals, activities and outings. In exchange for your hospitality, the au pair’s primary responsibility will be to provide childcare assistance, including light household duties related to the children, for up to 45 hours per week.
Your responsibilities
Cultural Care Au Pair is designated and regulated by the U. S. Department of State. All Cultural Care host families must adhere to government regulations, designed to ensure a successful program experience. Au pairs receive a weekly stipend from the host family. Their childcare responsibilities must not exceed 45 hours per week with a limit of 10 hours in any one day. Au pairs are entitled to one-and-a-half consecutive days off per week, one complete weekend off each month and two weeks of paid vacation during the year. A host parent or other responsible adult must be at home during the first three days of the au pair’s stay to familiarize the au pair with your children and home. Your au pair must have a suitable private bedroom in your home.
Au pair education and meetings
Au pairs are also required by government regulation to fulfill an educational component equivalent to six credit hours during their year in the U.S. and attend monthly meetings hosted by the local childcare coordinator. Host parents support their au pair’s education by paying up to $500 for course enrollment and educational materials and providing the au pair with transportation to and from classes and meetings.
