An au pair is a young cultural companion living with a host family.
It is not a servant role and not a full-time nanny job. The heart of the program is equal exchange: help with children, share language, learn family life.
Simple definition
Live with the family. Support the children. Share your culture.
The French phrase means “on equal terms”. In practice, that means you join the household as a temporary family member, with your own room, meals, time to study and a clear role around children and language.
Inside everyday life
You see breakfast routines, homework habits, family dinners and weekend choices from the inside.
A big sister or big brother role
You support children through conversation, play, reading, school routines and simple child-related tasks.
Language and culture both ways
The children learn from you. You learn Mandarin, family customs and how a Chinese home actually works.
The feeling
The best matches feel practical, warm and clearly bounded.
How the role works
Think of it as a rhythm, not a list of chores.
Build trust with the children through repeatable routines and patience.
Use English or your native language naturally in games, reading and daily life.
Join family moments while respecting privacy, house rules and your own rest time.
Use the experience to understand China, improve Mandarin and become more independent.
An au pair usually is
- A temporary family member
- A language and culture companion
- A responsible helper around children
- A learner with time to study and explore
An au pair is not
- A full-time housekeeper
- A replacement parent
- A private employee without boundaries
- A tourist with no family responsibility
Curious whether this role fits you?
Read the responsibility guide next, or start an application and tell us what kind of family life you hope to join.