Although host families in the US probably are not too happy, the deal for foreign au pairs working in America just got a little sweeter. With the July increase in the federal minimum wage, the au pair stipend, which is in part based on the minimum wage rate, has also gone up.
This means the au pairs working in the United States now earn a weekly stipend of $195.75 (which is almost $20 more than they had been earning up to now). This puts monthly ‘pocket money’ for au pairs at around $800.00, and more for the months with five weeks…Not too shabby, considering room and board is covered.
Now is definitely time to consider coming to the US to work!
August 17th, 2009 at 12:51 am
Even with the new federal minimum wage increase, the au pair is still an incredibly affordable childcare option for families because the amount a family pays an au pair is per family and not per child. And for the au pairs, the increase really helps them with the ability to be able to get out and explore more of America.
August 17th, 2009 at 2:07 am
I agree with you completely, Tracy. Having an au pair is especially affordable for larger families, and au pairs will only benefit from more spending money. Most of the U.S. is fairly affordable anyhow, and with $800-$1000 a month, they could do a lot, as long as they are not complete shop-a-holics.
August 25th, 2009 at 2:28 am
I agree also, aupaircare is very affordable! Plus, you get that cultural diversity and experience, that is so enriching for your children. I would like to suggest that all host parents consider buying a copy of Tayla’s book, The Girl’s Guide to being an Au Pair for their new au pair (it can be tucked into her welcome basket or left in her room).
I have a copy and I just love it. It is full of great advice on all kinds of experiences she will have when she arrives and make her year more enjoyable and stress-free. It is next to my bedside and I have read it through twice. Great book and Tayla is a wonderful writer.
Having over 10 years of experience working with au pairs, I highly endorse this book!
Edina Stone
http://www.aupairclearinghouse.com