In Belgium, families often choose an Au Pair for several reasons:
1. Language education and cultural exchange:
Belgium is a multilingual country, with Dutch, French and German as official languages. An Au Pair often comes from abroad and can help a family member learn a new language, while practicing the local language themselves. It is a cultural exchange that can be enriching for both parties.
2. Flexible childcare:
Au Pairs can support family members by caring for children at flexible times, such as after school or on weekends. This offers families a cost-effective and relatively affordable childcare solution, especially when both parents work.
3. Work-life balance:
For families with busy work schedules, an Au Pair can help improve work-life balance by providing additional support in the home. This allows parents more time for their own work or play.
4. Cost-effective:
Compared to professional childcare or a nanny, in some cases it is cheaper to hire an Au Pair, especially since the salary is often lower than that of full-time childcare.
5. Long-term relationship:
An Au Pair usually stays with a family for a longer period of time (usually between 6 and 12 months), which provides stability and continuity in the care of the children. This can be especially helpful for families with young children.
6. Family dynamics and social interaction:
Having an Au Pair can add an extra dimension to the family dynamic. Au Pairs often bring a different perspective on life and can help enrich the family experience for both parents and children.
In short, an Au Pair can offer a practical and cost-effective solution for many Belgian families, especially if they are looking for flexible, personal care in a multicultural environment.