The job of an au pair is to provide assistance to working parents in their home, while ensuring the well-being of their children is maintained. Typically the candidate comes from abroad and moves into the family home, and therefore is treated as part of the family. Under Canadian law, a minimum of six months’ training for this position is necessary.
The duties of the au pair centre around the children, ensuring they have food, are clean, and if the children are of school-age, that they arrive and leave school on time. The au pair is expected to play with the children, and to stimulate their development through creative activities.
Additionally, the job holder may be required to keep the house in order, doing light housework when necessary, and in some instances, to prepare the family meal when the parents are unable to. The job requires a hard-working and energetic character who is sensitive to the needs of children.
Unlike other countries, Canada does not have a program for au pairs, but they are required to receive the minimum wage (no less than C
$7.60 per hour) depending on the province.