Why should I participate in an Au-Pair program in Chile?
Our Au-Pair program will offer you a unique opportunity to experience the Chilean culture and will show you a whole new world. Our program will also enable you to further develop your personality, social skills, and strengthen your sense of, which can be advantageous for your future career.
Which tasks do I have to do as an Au-Pair?
Your area of responsibility as an Au-Pair is mainly related to the children of the host family. For example, you will have to supervise the children when the parents are out or otherwise occupied. You will play, sing, and read with them, and help them with their homework. You will support the parents with bathing and dressing the children, preparing their meals, and feeding them when needed. Some families also need help with driving their children to kindergartens and schools and accompany the kids to extracurricular activities, such as after school programs, music lessons, among others. In the evenings, you will be responsible for putting the children to bed, and if needed, babysit while the parents are out.
Which working hours are expected of me as an Au-Pair?
In general, you will work between 30 to 40 hours per week. You will be granted with at least one free day and four free evenings per week. You will have one paid vacation day for each month working as an Au-Pair. If you are interested in participating in the program for longer than 8 months, you will accrue 2 paid vacation days per month from the 8th month onwards. Additionally, you do not have to work on national holidays, such as Christmas or Independence Day. However, if you are requested to do so, you will be compensated with an additional free day.
How long are the Au-Pair programs in Chile?
The minimum duration of the Au-Pair program is 3 months and the maximum is 1 year. The longer you participate in the program, the more you will learn and contribute to your host family and children. The first couple of weeks will be exhausting, since you will be adapting to a new country, a new family, and a new language. In order to make the most of this experience, we recommend that you to stay the longest you can.
When can I begin my Au-Pair program?
You can apply to the Au-Pair program at any time. However, keep in mind that it can take from 8 to 12 weeks to find a family for you. We recommend to apply at least 3 months before the date you want to start the program.
Is it OK for women to travel to and around Chile alone?
Chile is one of the safest countries in South America. The police is not corrupt and the criminality rate is rather low.
However, as with any other country, you should take some precautions while traveling alone, especially if you do not speak the local language. Minor incidents, such as pocket picking, fraud and identity theft, have been reported in several parts in Chile. There are also certain city districts that you should not visit alone, especially at nighttime, but all of our host families live in safe districts, so you should worry about this.
Your host family or your contact person in Chile Inside will provide you with comprehensive information about the city, your neighborhood, and transportation services so you can visit places in a safely manner.
Is there a minimum/maximum age to participate in an Au-Pair program?
In order to participate in an Au-Pair program you have to be at least 18 years old.
If you are over 50 years old, you can participate in our Granny-Au-Pair program. Many families would be happy to have your help and experience to support them with their children.
Do I need to speak Spanish to apply for the program?
Spanish proficiency is not required to apply for the program, but applicants with Spanish skills are strongly preferred.
A Spanish course in Chile will prepare you for your time as an Au-Pair with a Chilean family.
Can I learn Spanish / improve my Spanish during the Au-Pair program in Chile?
Absolutely! While working as an Au-Pair in Chile, we strongly recommend to take the Spanish course in Chile which will show you the uniqueness of the Chilean slang.
Do I need prior experiences in child care to apply for the Au-Pair program in Chile?
Prior experiences are not required when applying for the Au-Pair program in Chile. However, experienced candidates are highly preferred. It is certainly important to have a high degree of responsibility, reliability, and helpfulness in order to be a good Au-Pair.
Will I have a contact person in Chile?
Yes, your contact person from Chile Inside is located in Santiago de Chile. You can always contact us or stop by our office for a personal conversation if it is needed.
We also have a 24/7/365 emergency number which enables you to contact a person from Chile Inside whenever you need help or find yourself in an emergency situation.
What happens if I do not get along with my host family?
In case you realize that you and your host family do not get along very well, do not worry! We can look for another host family for you. You are not obliged to stay with the host family if you do not feel comfortable.
In our experience, little misunderstandings can make things harder for you in the beginning. Our advice: Try to keep a good level of communication with your host family from the very beginning. If something seems different to you or makes you feel uncomfortable, do not hesitate to ask, even if it seems unnecessary. In order to help your family to better understand your needs, tell them about yourself, your traditions, and customs.
What is included in the price of the program?
The program fees include the advisory of Chile Inside before starting the program, the selection process of your host family, translation of your documents, and support during your stay in Chile,. We will also help you to plan your travel, book your flights, and sign up for health insurance. The accommodation and food during your stay will be provided by your host family.
What type of insurance do I need to apply for the Au-Pair program in Chile?
Health insurance is required to apply for the program. Other insurances, such as travel cancellation or luggage protection, are optional and up to you.
International health insurance is very important when going abroad for a long period of time. In case you need medical treatment or to go to the hospital, your insurance will take care of the medical expenses. In case you get seriously sick or injured, and you cannot stay in Chile any longer, this insurance should cover the expenses for your transportation back to your home country.
It is also a good idea to sign up for a foreign liability insurance, which will protect you against damages that you might cause during your work or leisure time. This is especially relevant for those Au-Pairs wanting to drive during their time in Chile.
Are there any vaccination regulations to consider when applying for the Au-Pair program in Chile?
Special vaccinations are not required to travel to Chile. However, talk to your doctor before starting the program and ask for his/her advice regarding this and other health related matters. Many doctors recommend vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B.