“We also provide weekly playgroups and outings that au pairs can bring children along to as well as professional development and mediation services.”
People considering an au pair should also look for a rematch guarantee. That means if an initial placement doesn’t work out, the agency works with the family to find an au pair that better matches their childcare needs.
Further myths include au pairs being available only in our major cities and that many are not suitable to look after babies.
“Both those certainly don’t apply,” Casey says. “In our experience many au pairs delight in experiencing rural life in New Zealand. Au Pair Link is licensed throughout New Zealand and our service has proven to be very popular with rural families in the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki and Canterbury. Au pairs all have varied experience and many have good relevant experience working with babies. There are varying degrees of programmes available, such as Au Pair Link’s Au Pair Whiz, should they want a qualified or more experienced au pair to take care of their babies.”
One of the major benefits of having an au pair from overseas is the cultural exchange. Au pairs are able to share their culture with the children who in many instances gain exposure to a second language. Research suggests children who learn a second language early in life can grow up to enjoy learning advantages later on due to the early brain development as a result of their learning experience.
Having an au pair can be a wonderfully fulfilling experience for the entire family. Au pairs become part of the family; he or she adapts to family routines ensuring children feel secure and confident. An au pair also helps free up parental time, providing the opportunity for parents to enjoy quality time with their children.
Anyone considering employing an au pair should ensure they are licensed as a home-based Early Childhood Education (ECE) provider by the New Zealand Ministry of Education. More information is available on the Au Pair Link website at www.aupairlink.co.nz or call the team on 0800 AU PAIR (287 247).
