There are many reasons to au pair but here are some of my own:
- Travel for an extended amount of time and for relatively very little money
- Live “locally.” Experience a destination in more depth than you ever could have as a tourist.
- Live somewhere new/different/more exotic
- Learn a new language
- Experience a new culture
- Interest in children or child care
- Adventure
- Use it as a stepping stone into further travels
Like any decision, there are merits to consider. Consider the following:
Positives
- Low cost of living abroad
- All of the fun you may have
- Learning and adventure
- Casual lifestyle -it certainly isn’t a 9-5 grind
- Amazing experiences
- Meet new people, create international contacts and a second family abroad
- Getting pocket money for relatively little and easy work
- Travel to surrounding nations
- Holidays with the family (Yes you get to go along! And no, you don’t pay -think of yourself as the eldest sibling in the family)
Negatives
- Far from home (this isn’t a negative for all though!) or homesickness
- Potential culture shock
- Lonely periods (especially before meeting friends or integrating)
- Feeling as if you are living someone else’s lifestyle or that you are a teenager again, living with your parents.
- Having to learn a new language (so don’t go to a country that isn’t English speaking!?)
- You managed to select a family who is incompatible with your lifestyle
- Small towns -inability to meet any friends and the costs associated with getting out of town
- Crappy pay that isn’t enough to cover your expenses
I’m a firm believer in that if you are self aware and openly communicate with prospective families, then most of the negatives can be avoided.
Flashpacker fodder 