AU PAIR OR CHILDCARE?

Two very different choices

The au pair programme is a cultural exchange programme: a young person from abroad comes to live with your family for a year. Regular childcare is official, regulated care provided by professionals. Below you can see the differences at a glance.

CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMMEAu pair programme

OFFICIAL CHILDCAREDaycare, out-of-school care or childminder

What is it?A young person from abroad lives with your family for up to twelve months to get to know the Netherlands, and helps out.Professional care for children aged 0 to 12, in a group or with a childminder.

Legal frameworkA residence purpose with its own rules. Supervised by the IND, only through a recognised au pair agency.The Dutch Childcare Act, with registration in the National Childcare Register (LRK) and a pedagogical policy plan.

Who provides the care?An au pair aged 18 to 25. A childcare qualification is not required.Qualified childcare professionals, or a childminder with a diploma and a certificate of good conduct (VOG).

Where?In your home, in familiar surroundings.At the daycare centre, the out-of-school care or the childminder's.

HoursA fixed weekly schedule that you plan yourselves, in blocks and also in the evening. Up to 30 hours a week and 8 hours a day.Fixed hours, usually on weekdays during working hours.

TasksCaring for the children and light household tasks, such as tidying up and cooking a few times a week.Only care for the children.

CostsFixed costs per family: on average € 600 – € 900 per month including agency fees, plus room and board. We advise a maximum of three children per au pair.Per child per hour: daycare approx. € 8 – € 12, childminder approx. € 5 – € 7. Increases with more children.

Childcare benefitNo.Yes, if the provider is listed in the LRK.

ApproachPersonal one-to-one attention within the family, less professionally structured.Structured activities and a fixed daily routine, with peers.

CultureThe core of the programme: another language and culture at home.Focused on the Dutch context, without international exchange.

RelationshipA family member, not an employee.A professional service provider.

Which suits you when?

Choose an au pair if you…

Choose childcare if you…

And a nanny?

A nanny is a professional, employed childcarer with an employment contract and a market-rate salary (on average € 15 – € 20 per hour plus employer costs). A nanny often has a childcare qualification and fixed working hours, but there is no cultural exchange.

A combination is also possible

For example, the children go to school or to childcare a few days a week, and the au pair helps with the morning and evening rush. Many families take part until the youngest goes to secondary school.

Are you aiming for a successful
au pair placement?

Do you want to discover how an au pair can enrich your family life? During a free and non-binding introduction call, we will tell you everything about the program and answer your questions. Easily schedule an appointment via our agenda and take the first step towards a fantastic au pair experience.

Let your family grow with the help of an au pair who perfectly fits your needs. Click the button now and take the first step towards more peace, enrichment, and harmony at home.

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AU PAIR OR CHILDCARE?

Two very different choices

Which suits you when?

Are you aiming for a successful au pair placement?

Are you aiming for a successful
au pair placement?