So you really really want to try the au pair program. The cultural exchange aspect truly appeals to your family. As you are looking at the program you realize " I do not need 45 hours a week of childcare" Your kids are all in school from 7 in the morning to 2 or 3 in the afternoon. You need someone to drive them to lessons and practices, but no way is that going to add up to 45 hours a week. Why waste the money? On the other hand you know that older kids really benefit from having a "big sibling" to count on. Someone other than mom and dad to bond with and learn from, but someone you still trust. Is there an option out there for you? You bet!
It is called the EduCare program. Au Pairs in this program have the same requirements as those in the Standard Au Pair program, however the program is designed for families with school-aged children.
The requirements of the EduCare program are:
- EduCare Au Pairs work 30 hours per week instead of 45 hours
- The EduCare weekly stipend is only 75% of the Standard stipend
- EduCare Au Pairs are required to complete 12 credits of post-secondary education at an accredited institution
- The EduCare education allotment is $1000 per year instead of $500
- EduCare Au Pairs are not permitted to care for children under 2-years-old
- EduCare Au Pairs may provide care for children up to 18-years-old
Au Pair mom had a great discussion about this a while ago. What do you think?
Go Au Pair has Au Pairs who are interested in being in the EduCare program. Why not investigate this option to see if it is right for your family?
