FAQ: Au Pair Scheduling and Hours

One of the most common questions we get about the au pair program is about the au pair’s schedule and hours. How many hours can an au pair work? Can an au pair work on nights or weekends?

Work Schedule

One of the many benefits of the au pair program is the flexibility of live-in care. As a parent, you know that no two weeks are the same dealing with events, after-school activities, work and other commitments. With Au Pair in America, you create your own child care schedule of up to 10 hours per day, up to 45 hours per week, providing the flexibility and convenience you need to simplify your life. Having your child care in your own home makes dealing with sick days, snow days and life’s little surprises a little easier.

• Au pairs can work a maximum of 10 hours a day and 45 hours per week.
• Au pairs are entitled to one and a half days off each week, which means that if her hours are spread over 6 days, one of those work days cannot exceed 5 hours of work.

Download an easy-to-use form to plan your au pair’s Work Schedule.

Nights and Weekends

Au pairs follow the family schedule, so they may work on weekends and evenings. Host families know they have a certain number of hours to work with each week (10 hours per day, up to 45 hours per week) and create a schedule within that framework.

• Au pairs get a full week-end off every month, from Friday night to Monday morning.
• Any hours that an au pair has responsibility for the children, even if she is sleeping, are considered work hours.

Part of the application process for a host family is filling out a sample work schedule so that we can understand your child care needs. And part of the placement and interview process is discussing your specific child care needs with your Placement Coordinator and your au pair, so that she understands your child care needs and we can ensure the best experience possible. Au pairs are carefully screened and understand that flexibility is a requirement of the program.

Questions? Schedule a consult with us at a time that is convenient for you to discuss your family’s child care needs. Or contact us at (800) 928-7247 or aupair.info@aifs.com.