What do you think is important to know before you become an Au Pair?
I think it is really important to be in contact with the family you want to go to. Also you have to make clear which tasks you will have and if you are able to life in a family you do not know.
How much money did you au pair life cost?
I earned around 70 pound in a week. Accommodation, food and language school was paid by the family. But before I went to England I put some money aside and you really need it!
How did you get in contact with your hostfamily?
When I decided to go away as an au-pair I went to an agency which helped me to find the right family for me. They suggested me a few and I contacted them by phone. Afterwards I chose the one which I liked the most.
What’s the advantages and disadvantages?
The advantages are that you will meet a lot of people from all over the world, become much more indepndent and you will improve you languages skills a lot.
A disadvantage can be that you become homesick or you do not feel comfortable in your host family.
What did you think about your host family?
I really enjoyed my time in England. But I have to say that I had a few problems with my host family. Especially with the mother of the family it was really difficult. There were four small kids between 1 and 7 years.... thats a lot of work and stress. Also the house was to small for 4 kids 3 adults and two cats. We had no space to step aside.
Was it scary to travel alone to another country?
No it was not scary but really exiting....
How was it to live with people you didn’t know?
It was really strange and difficult. You don`t know the people, the have other habits and they don`t speak your language...so you really have to conform yourself to them.
Did you get to know the family well?
Yes, I had my room between the bedroom and the room of the children. That means I had them around me 24 hours, also when I was free of work. We visited the family together and had our dinner every evening together.
Did you get homesick?
No, not really... Of course I missed my family and friends but there where so many new impressions that I not really had time to become homesick. Also there are always possibilities how f.e. msn, facebook, skype,... to keep in touch with them.
How did you handle it?
I talked like every second or third day with my family on phone or via internet.
Did you ever quarrel with a family member?
Yes sometimes, but thats quiet normal if you life with them together like 24 hours.
If so, how did you handle it?
First it was a little bit difficult but than we talked about it and tried to find a solution.
Do you regret working as an Au Pair?
No, in no way! I met so many phantastic people with who I am still in contact and I improved my english skills a lot. The next time I would choose the family where I want to life and work a little bit more carefully. But I would advise everyone to make this experience!!!