Au pairs aren’t just a flexible child care option – they can also provide valuable support when it comes to homework. When you host an au pair, you have the added luxury of a built-in homework helper, who can serve as an extra set of hands for helping your child tackle schoolwork at home. While they aren’t full-fledged tutors, au pairs can provide one-on-one attention and assistance to help your child succeed academically.
Here are five major ways an au pair can help your children with their homework:
1. Language Support
If your children are learning a new language, having an au pair who is fluent in that language can be a huge help. They can assist with pronunciation, grammar and sentence structure. Having someone to practice with – especially a native speaker – can make a big difference in your child’s ability to learn and retain a new language.
2. Individualized Attention
Your au pair can provide one-on-one support that may help your children with their schoolwork. They can also help them stay on task to make sure homework is completed and that they are prepared for class each day. Plus, your au pair can help keep any younger siblings engaged so your school-aged children can focus on finishing their assignments.
3. Time Management
Between school, extracurricular activities and family obligations, children can easily become overwhelmed and fall behind on homework. An au pair can help with time management and provide structure and organization to your child’s day. They can help create a homework schedule and make sure that your children have time to complete their assignments while also participating in other activities. Plus, au pairs can help your children take small breaks, get moving outside, and avoid frustration when tackling challenging assignments.
4. Global Perspective
Au pairs come from all over the world, each bringing their unique cultural backgrounds with them. This diversity can help broaden your children’s horizons and provide them with a global perspective on the world – including their schoolwork. Your au pair can introduce your children to other strategies, teaching styles and ways of thinking that they may not have encountered otherwise.
5. Maintain House Rules
As a parent, you likely have house rules regarding screen time, meal times, and other household responsibilities. Your au pair can help maintain these rules and ensure that your children are following them when you aren’t able to be there. For example, your au pair can help make sure that your children complete their homework before engaging in screen time or other activities.
Pro-Tip: Set the stage for your au pair from the start. Make sure to clearly communicate your expectations regarding your children’s homework and afterschool routine.
Not only can an au pair provide homework help for your children, but they can also take some stress off you as a parent.
With an au pair in your home, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child or children are receiving the individualized attention and support they need. If you’re considering hosting an au pair for flexible, live-in child care assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Au Pair in America offers a rigorous screening process to ensure that your au pair is qualified, experienced and ready to provide the support your family needs.
