Welcome to Au Pair Care!

Welcome to AuPairCare!

AuPairCare understands that each family is unique. That's why our programs are customized to fit your childcare needs, budget, lifestyle, and timing. Our carefully screened au pairs provide the highest quality of in-home care to ensure that your children will be safe, happy, and healthy. AuPairCare offers you a dependable, flexible childcare solution. You'll have childcare that fits you.

Did you know that AuPairCare has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating! If you're looking for an au pair agency, this is an important consideration. Ask other agencies their rating.

Meet Our Au Pairs

AuPairCare has hundreds of carefully screened au pairs from around the world available for placement. When you welcome an au pair to your home, you gain superior childcare at a surprisingly affordable price. Meet some of our amazing au pairs at http://www.aupaircare.com/

So what's this about traveling in the summer?

I have a brother that insisted I come visit him and the rest of the family frequently when my children were babies. He’d say, “Travel while you can, before they get into that school schedule”. Now he has little ones and he says, “It’s just too hard to travel with babies. You come see us”.

His craziness started me thinking, I have traveled a lot with kids, so here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way.

1) If flying, book a direct flight during the time of day your child is most happy. EX: Morning child=morning flight, late riser=later flight

2) If driving, stop at places with a playground so children can get out of car and exercise. There are many rest areas with playgrounds or pack a ball to throw, kick or chase in a field.

3) When packing, don’t forget the number one best item to use…zip lock bags. You can use them to be as organized as you’d like. You can put all of Monday’s cloths in a bag, Tuesday’s, etc. You can pack toiletries and avoid messes if anything spills. You can keep socks in them. You can keep all your child’s clothes in one and yours in another. The organization scenarios are endless.

4) Keep in mind that this is a vacation, so don’t over plan. Leave some time to enjoy each other and sometimes, play it by ear. If your kids are a little older, they’ll love to hear, “what do you want to do?”

5) If you have an au pair, make sure to allow some adult time. Reconnect with your spouse and enjoy each other for a night or go on a fun adventure that you just couldn’t do with the kids. Remember, this is your vacation, too.

6) Whenever possible, stay in something with a kitchen. Having the means to make meals or store food always comes in handy during middle of the night feedings or kids that want a snack NOW!

7) One way I’ve found helpful in packing is to pack one suitcase per a couple of days instead of one suitcase per person. That way you only have to get into one suitcase at a time.

These are some ideas I’ve found helpful. What about you? Let us know about some of your best travel tips with children of all ages.

Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, nanny, childcare, babysitter, sitter, live-in, au pair, provider, AuPairCare, nannies, children, child, kids, multiples, twins, triplets

Have you heard? A new language school is in town. It's called Lango!

I am so excited about a new opportunity for our children to become bilingual. It's called Lango and it has come to Hampton Roads. What is Lango?

Lango offers dynamic and engaging Spanish, French and Mandarin classes and summer camps to kids. Lango classes teach children a new language in an immersion-based setting using songs, stories, games, dance -- even yoga to engage children in their new language.

At Lango your child will:

Learn a foreign language
Make developmental strides
Gain an appreciation for other cultures
Make new friends in the classroom

Lango's dynamic classes incorporate original music, dance, games, storytelling and more to keep kids immersed and engaged in their target language. With our experienced and fluent teachers, kids follow the adventures of the "Lango Kids", our multicultural cast of characters who appear in our original workbooks, songs, and other learning materials. Students learn through a series of activities -- "adventures" that mimic those of the Lango Kids.

Who has been to a Lango class? We'd love to hear from you.

The Gulf Coast Tick right here in Hampton Roads? Yuck!

Have you seen the news lately? There's a new tick in town. It's the Gulf Coast tick and it's marched right into our area.

I have an active family and we love to hike in the woods. With an au pair, kids have more opportunities to get outside and take advantage of the natural areas around our house.

We've always been aware of ticks and do a "tick-check" every night. I have the philosophy that I can't shelter my kids from everything, but I can educate them so they're prepared. So, here's a little education on the Gulf Coast Tick...

The Gulf Coast tick is larger than the deer tick and also carries disease. It is also unique in the tick family because it stalks and attacks it's prey. The disease most associated with the Gulf Coast tick is Tidewater Spotted Fever which has symptoms of a rash and fever. The good news is that Tidewater Spotted Fever can be treated with antibiotics.

How do you avoid ticks? Always wear a hat when in the woods and try to wear light color long sleeves and pants. Why light colored? So you can see the ticks if they're on you. As I mentioned before, have your au pair or you do a "tick-check" on your children. Comb though hair, separating it into little sections, so you can see the tiniest of ticks. Also, make sure you check the private parts. Ticks can hide anywhere. A tick-check can become part of the routine for active families. My kids now do their own and even say as we walk inside from a walk in the wood, "I'll do my tick check before my shower".

Any other advice out there? Let's share.

Are you making sacrifices in order to afford your daycare, nanny, or childcare in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg?

Many child care options are unaffordable to the average U.S. family. In 2009 the average center-based child care fees for an infant were more than the average annual amount that families spent on food, according to a survey done by Child Care Resource and Referral. Parents want high quality child care, but its high cost forces many parents to make sacrifices. But, parents don’t have to sacrifice high quality for affordability. Au pair matching agencies, such as AuPairCare, provide international au pairs for U.S. families at a low cost when compared to other child care options in the country.

The hourly cost of an au pair from AuPairCare is approximately $7.50 per hour, considerably lower than the cost of baby sitters, nannies, day-care centers, and camps. Most baby sitters in the U.S. charge an average of $10 to $15 per hour, and are not required to go through specialized child care training, like AuPairCare’s au pairs. Au pairs provide individual attention to children, whereas a day-care center employee’s attention is divided among many children. The cost of AuPairCare’s au pairs remains the same regardless of how many children a host family has or what hours the au pair is providing child care. This makes it a great child care option for families with multiples or parents who work nontraditional hours, as day-care centers charge per child and increase the cost for child care during nontraditional hours.

How to choose a preschool for your child in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, & Williamsburg

I know many working parents are looking into preschools right now. How do you pick the best one? Is it based on academics? Is it based on play? Is it based on location? Or, frankly, is it based on what is convenient with your schedule?

Figure Out What is Important to You
You know your child best, so you will know which school is best for your child--regadless of what your friends say or recommend.
There are so many different philosophy's. Sort through all the ones available where you live.
What to Look for No Matter What Type of School You Choose You'll want small class sizes and low child-teacher ratios.

These are three of the most important factors when considering a preschool. Unfortunately, most people decide on a preschool based on transportation and the work day. One alternative for working parents is having an au pair from who can drive the children to and from preschool. This alternative allows the younger kids an appropriate amount of time in school and an appropriate amount of time at home. While the children are at school, an au pair can be doing their laundry, cleaning their rooms and bathrooms, and getting dinner ready for the children.
A preschool aged child with an au pair can also foster friendships in school. An au pair can take your child to play dates and to social outings with children their own age from their school. This builds good social skills as your child matures.
Priority number one in choosing a preschool? Picking the place where your child will be most happy. Academics are important, but your child has a lifetime of formal learning ahead of them. Preschool should be a place where your child learns to love school and learns to love learning. By having an au pair during the preschool years, your child gets the best of both worlds. Time at school, time with friends, and time at home.
Contact http://www.aupaircare.com/ for more information about having an au pair help you during the preschool years or check out our local blog about au pairs in Hampton Roads at http://www.aupaircarehamptonroadsva.blogspot.com/

What are the benefits of an AuPairCare au pair in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, & Williamsburg

A host family shares with ABC News why they chose an au pair for child care.

Is the cost of EVERYTHING on the rise in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, & Williamsburg?

According to the U.S. Census, the cost of child care increased twice as fast as the median income of families with children in the year 2000, and continues to rise. In addition, a recent survey by Kelton Research indicated that Americans have noticed significant increases in their expenditures on gas, food, utilities, insurance, phone, Internet, and cable bills just in the past three months. The ever increasing cost of living in the U.S. often requires both parents to work outside of the home, making affordable child care a necessity.

Did you know that an AuPairCare au pair costs about $340/week ($7.50 an hour) regardless of the number of children in your family? No other childcare option maintains the original price as the number of children increases.

Take a look at one of the most affordable childcare options available at www.aupaircare.com.

The interview process at AuPairCare finds the perfect au pair for your family in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, & Williamsburg

Every family is unique and every family needs the perfect au pair. Through the interview process at AuPairCare, each family can find the au pair for them. Here is an example of a special family and their bond with their au pair from Poland.

Visit http://www.aupaircare.com/ to find out about our interview process and how it will work for your family.

With an au pair, enjoy your mornings in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

Are your mornings the most stressful time of day?

With an AuPairCare au pair, you can enjoy a relaxing morning enjoying the time with your children.

Or, your au pair can get the children ready for the day and you can get to work early. Then, you might be able to leave on time and enjoy dinner with your family.

That's how a flexible au pair schedule can help you manage your work day and your family time.

Au pairs provide pre-screened, experienced live-in childcare for about $340/week ($7.50 an hour) regardless of the number of children in your family.

In light of our own Virginia Beach Seal Team and their Efforts...

In light of the happenings in the world, security is on my mind. It started me thinking, about how wonderful it is to have an au pair in charge of your children. When parents are at work, an au pair is there as a dedicated adult in charge of your children at all times. An au pair is not distracted by other children. An au pair is simply here to look after your children. There is security in that dedication. Not only are there eyes on your children at all times, but if need be, there is one single adult who will make sure your children are safe at all times.

Think about it. Would you rather your child be in a group of children with one adult or would you rather your children have one adult dedicated to them?

Celebrate Mother's Day by making Your Family's Life Easier with an Au Pair in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, & Williamsburg

Is it hard working full time, taking care of kids, fitting in a little exercise, trying to make dinner, driving the kids to their various activities, cleaning the house, and still staying sane?

This Mother's Day, AuPairCare has a solution for all of those "activities" that keep you busy. For just $39, apply to AuPairCare and in a few short weeks, welcome an au pair into your home. Did you know an au pair can drive your kids to their activities? Did you know an au pair can clean the parts of the house that the children use? Did you know an au pair can do the kid's laundry? The only thing listed that an au pair can't do for you is your exercise. You're on your own with that one. But, if you have an au pair, you'll find the time to take a walk outside and enjoy this wonderful weather!

So go ahead, and apply to AuPairCare at www.aupaircare.com and have a Happy Mother's Day! You and your family deserve it.

How to Formulate an Emergency Plan for your Au Pair in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

Having driven through the tornado destruction in North Carolina, I was reminded that my family does not have an emergency plan. I wonder if all my host families have an emergency plan with their au pair. These effective strategies will help you and your au pair prepare for the most common types of emergencies.

1. Program clearly marked emergency numbers into every cell phone in your family’s speed dial. Include the cell phone of your au pair as well.

2. Set up two meeting places for your au pair and everyone in your family: one near your house in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire or home invasion, and another outside the neighborhood, such as a school or friend’s house, in case you can’t get home. Make sure your au pair knows about both locations. Also designate on family ember to make decisions for the whole group during a crisis, including where to meet and what to do in case pans must change.

3. Designate an out of town relative or friend as your contact and the contact for your au pair in the event tat local phone service is interrupted. Family members and your au pair should phone in as soon as possible.

4. Discuss, locate, and prepare priority items such as photos and documents to save. Have your will, insurance paperwork, and all legal documents in good order.

5. Prepare a backpack for each family member with extra clothing, shoes jackets, medications, diapers, and wipes for babies, insurance, and medical information. Include a laminated picture of the entire family with names and numbers. Keep them in a chest by the front door, in a hall closet, or in the trunk of your car.

6. Keep an emergency kit, including first aid supplies, in each car.

Tidewater Moms of Multiples in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Hampton Roads, and Williamsburg

The Tidewater Mothers of Multiples is having their consignment sale!

If you are looking to stock on some baby and kids items then don't miss this sale!

Saturday April 2, 2011 (Cash Only)
8am - 12:15 PM Regular Price
12:30 PM- 2:2PM Half Price
Numbers will be handed out to guests in line beginning at 6:45 Am. The number will hold your place in the line when the doors open at 8am.

Where: Church of the Ascension
4853 Princess Anne Rd
Virginia Beach, VA (between Baxter and Edwin Drive)

www.tmomc.org

Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, nanny, childcare, babysitter, sitter, live-in, au pair, provider, AuPairCare, nannies, children, child, kids, multiples, twins, triplets

At the Hampton International Childrens Festival, find a solution to your childcare needs in Hampton Roads, Williamsburg, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Newport News

AuPairCare, the ultimate cultural exchange and childcare program, will be at the Hampton International Childrens Festival. Look for our table and win some prizes while learning about how an au pair can help you.

A huge benefit to having an au pair is creating a cultural exchange for everyone. The au pair is able to live and breathe the experience of living in a new country and the new culture that comes along with it. But, the au pair also brings her/his culture with them; traditional songs, or stories, a new language, and/or special foods, all of which introduce the whole family to new things that they otherwise would not likely have experienced.

An au pair can provide consistent support to the children. For young children especially it is important that they are able to form a bond with their care provider, and an au pair is able to facilitate this in a way that builds a long lasting relationship.

An au pair is so much more than just day care. An au pair is available as needed. The au pair's primary responsibility is to care for the children, and she/he will have their own experiences and time off around the family's schedule. An au pair can be available to get the children ready in the morning, to take them to music lessons or soccer practice and can watch them in the evening if it's finally time for a special date!

An Au Pair cares for the children in their own home. While day care and after school programs are wonderful and needed services, time and again studies show that children, especially young children, enjoy the time they are able to be in the comfortable, relaxing, and familiar environment of their own home. Because an au pair lives in the family home, this need can be supported in a very unique way.

Typically au pairs are also able to provide assistance with household chores such as laundry, grocery shopping and food preparation. This is a huge benefit for families because it gives parents the ability to spend more quality time with their children rather than constantly worrying about keeping up with the house.

Hiring an au pair can be a unique and exciting way to meet childcare needs for a family. The benefits an au pair can offer both children and their parents are great, and at the same time, a young person from another country is given a fabulous opportunity to explore the world!

Hampon Roads, Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, nanny, childcare, babysitter, sitter, live-in, au pair, provider, AuPairCare, nannies, children, child, kids, multiples, twins, triplets

How to talk to your children about the Japan tsunami and disaster in Hampton Roads, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Williamsburg, Newport News, and Hampton

We are all well aware of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Having a Japanese au pair in our cluster brings this disaster home. Fortunately, everyone in her family is safe. If you are struggling with how to talk to your children about the disaster, here are some ideas and thoughts.

• Limit exposure to children under 7 from the media.
• It's okay not to talk about it.
• Answer questions.
• Let your child know that they are safe.
• Acknowledge your child's feelings.
• Share your feelings as necessary
• Be brief, use language your child understands
• Be honest and accurate
• Be ready to have a few discussions about it.

For older children:
• Make sure they feel they are safe.
• Answer only what your child asks.
• Do not avoid the older child's what if question.
• Address fears. They are real to the child.
• Do an action to help the cause like donate or volunter.

Our favorite, silly Japanese au pair!

Making the Most of Your Au Pair in Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Hampton, and Williamsburg

…and no, I don’t mean making sure you’ve fully utilized all 45 hours in any given week! What I mean is, just like you should take time out to appreciate your family, life, “smelling the roses”, so too should you take time out to enjoy having an au pair, and to appreciate the unique and special experience this truly is. In light of the recent terrible events in Japan, I think it is important to take stock of our lives, to stop, just for a moment, to breathe, and to appreciate our current situation and the important people in it.

While hosting an au pair first and foremost fills a need we have for childcare, it must too be remembered that hosting an Au Pair from another country is a privilege to be nurtured and cherished. Take time out from the to-do chore list to really learn about who your au pair is as a person and the place she is coming from. Try to spend family time with her, perhaps game night, or a day out – to just have fun together! When time permits, one-on-one time to chat not about the kids, but as one adult to another. When you take the time to really get to know your au pair as a person, not just your childcare provider, you will find that not only will the working relationship be greatly improved, but that the whole experience will be enriched beyond measure.

Is your spring shaping up to be too busy? Would an au pair help you manage your crazy schedule in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg?

Spring is in the air & AuPairCare is celebrating with a $29 application for New Host Families!

This exclusive offer begins tomorrow and will end March 31^st. Enter the promo code SPRING$29 when completing the application.

AuPairCare Hampton Roads' Japanese Au Pair

Everyone has been asking me about our Japanese au pair and if her family is safe after the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Good news! I received word from her on Friday afternoon and all of her family is safe. I know there were a lot of worried people out there thinking of her and her family and the thoughts are so appreciated.

Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, nanny, childcare, babysitter, sitter, live-in, au pair, provider, AuPairCare, nannies, children, child, kids, multiples, twins, triplets

Are you concerned about the lack of training for your child's nanny in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg?

Au Pair Training that a Nanny just doesn't receive

The Au Pair Academy

All Au Pair Care au pairs attend the Au Pair Academy prior to arrival to the host family's home. This special program is designed to provide au pairs with an introduction to their year as an au pair and to provide practical training and information about childcare and safety topics. The program also focuses on introducing au pairs to American culture and what they can expect living with an American host family.
During the 3-day program, the Au Pair Academy instructors conduct discussions, activities and lead hands-on training at our state-of-the-art New Jersey campus,
a short distance from New York City.

Au pair training topics include:

Roles & responsibilities of an Au Pair Care au pair
Stages of child development (infant to young teen)
Keeping children safe at every age
Professional hands-on CPR & First Aid training, utilizing the American Heart Association course curriculum
Information on bathing & feeding American children
Strategies for caring for more than one child at a time
Games & activities for stimulating child development
American culture & the typical American household
Creating a positive working relationship with host parents
Responsibilities & safety precautions for driving in the USA
General household safety & hygiene

If you have an infant or are expecting, learn more about our Infant Specialized Au Pair Training Program.

“Camilla’s training put us at ease. Not only did she have great previous experience caring for children, but she was also trained by Au Pair Care, which gave us peace of mind. Most moms are nervous about having someone take care of their baby, so peace of mind is worth a lot.” – The Curkowski Family

During the Au Pair Academy program, au pairs attend small group sessions that provide in-depth information on elements of child safety, behavior and development. Au Pair Care au pairs participate in activities that will help reinforce learning, including what to do in an emergency, age appropriate indoor and outdoor activities and child nutrition. Each of these exercises increases confidence, thoughtful decision-making and prepares your au pair for a successful experience caring for your children.

The Au Pair Care Au Pair Academy training program is also a great way for au pairs to share questions and concerns in a supportive environment. Au pairs become fast friends and frequently stay in touch once they are in their host communities.

Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, nanny, childcare, babysitter, sitter, live-in, au pair, provider, AuPairCare, nannies, children, child, kids, multiples, twins, triplets

March Au Pair Event for AuPairCare and Friends in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

It's time to start planning for our March Au Pair Event. We're going to Laser Quest to play some laser tag. Here are the details:

When: March 16th at 6:00 pm
Where: Laser Quest Virginia Beach
(757)463-6300

2682 Dean Drive

Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Click for Map

RSVP by March 14th to dmartinapc@yahoo.com

Looking forward to a fun time with everyone and the first event with Paola and Marion.

Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg, nanny, childcare, babysitter, sitter, live-in, au pair, provider, AuPairCare, nannies, children, child, kids, multiples, twins, triplets

AuPairCare Au Pairs Share Culture with their Host Children in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

What are your Summer Vacation Plans? Do you need an au pair from AuPairCare?

Is this nice weather in Hampton Roads, Virginia making everyone think about their summer vacations? I know seeing the information about the upcoming camp guide has made me think about our summer vacation.

There are many host families in Hampton Roads that travel with their au pair. These families have good, relaxing time and don't return home feeling as if they don't need a "vacation" from their "vacation".

Having an au pair allows parents to spend time together while the children are well cared for. These families also have an extra set of eyes at the pool, arms to carry loads to the beach, and help at mealtime. Check out http://www.aupaircare.com/ to see the affordability and flexibility an au pair offers.

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Love is in the Air at AuPairCare

“Love is in the air” at AuPairCare and we’re sharing it with potential host families! Save over $300 for child care with a superior live-in alternative to a nanny. From today until February 18th, New Host Families can apply to see hundreds of au pair profiles for just $14. Apply online at www.aupaircare.com and enter the Promo Code: LOVEAPC to see the savings of over $300 on your application.

Kids with an au pair have fun on their snow day in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

Once again, there is a snow day in Hampton Roads, VA. All the kids with an au pair for child care are outside having fun in the snow with their au pair. I love seeing what everyone is doing today. Send me your pictures and videos and I'll get them on the site. Here's one: Au pair and kids sledding

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Tax information for Host Families and Au Pairs by AuPairCare in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, & Williamsburg

Taxpayer Identification Numbers:
If you are asked for taxpayer identification numbers, you should use the following:
·
Your au pair's social security number or ITIN, in reference to payments made directly to your au pair
·
94-3382054
AuPairCare’s federal tax ID number in reference to program fees paid to AuPairCare:
1) For the Host Family:
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
As long as a Host Family needed the au pair’s child care services in order to work or look for
employment, the stipends paid to au pairs, the cost of room and board, and the program fees
paid to AuPairCare are all eligible under the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. A fee paid to AuPairCare is eligible only once the au pair begins to provide services. However,
amounts paid to AuPairCare, and that are later forfeited, do not qualify. Note that if a Host
Family pays a fee (e.g. the payment due upon matching) in one calendar year, but the au pair
does not begin to provide services until the next year, the fee is eligible in the year during which
the au pair began to provide services. So, a Host Family who matches in December 2009 for a
January 2010 au pair arrival can include the match payment in the expenses for the 2010 tax
year. To file for the credit, your au pair must obtain a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual
Taxpayer Identification Number) from your local branch of the Social Security Administration. Au pairs are given a letter from AuPairCare to assist them in obtaining a Social Security number or ITIN. To claim the credit, you can file Form 1040, Form 1040A or Form 1040-T. Use your au pair’s Social Security number or ITIN as the tax identification number for the childcare provider.
Dependent Care Reimbursement Programs
The eligibility requirements for these programs are identical to those for the tax credit described above. As long as a Host Family needed child care in order to work or look for employment, the stipends paid to au pairs, the cost of room and board, and the program fees paid to AuPairCare are all qualified as a dependent care provider expense under employers’ Dependent Care Reimbursement programs. Contact your employer for specific guidance on this issue.
Reporting for My Au Pair’s Taxes
Host families usually do not need to pay federal unemployment tax (FUTA) for their au pairs,
because most au pairs are considered “non-resident aliens.” However, if the au pair had
previously been in the United States as a student, teacher, trainee, or researcher in F, J, M, or
Q nonimmigrant status
“resident alien” during his/her current stay in the United States. Host families are
withhold taxes unless the au pair (employee) requests that taxes be withheld and the host family
(employer) agrees to do so.
before becoming an au pair, then the au pair might be considered anot required to
Responsibility for Au Pair’s Taxes
The
taxes, if applicable. The IRS does not hold the host family responsible for an au pair’s failure to
file a return nor for any unpaid tax bill that may result from a filing. However, your au pair will
need some record of the stipend payments received from you, so please be sure to use the
Stipend Payment Receipt template included at the end of this document (or create your own
receipt to use).
au pair is responsible for declaring her/his own income, submitting a tax return and paying
Documentation for My Taxes
For program fees, AuPairCare is happy to provide customized invoicing and payment
documentation upon request via email to
stipend payments to your au pair, AuPairCare recommends that you use the Stipend
Payment Receipt template found in your family room.
CustomerCare@aupaircare.com. For
2) For Au Pairs:
Because the IRS considers an au pair to be an “employee” of the host family,
required to file U.S. individual income tax returns even though many au pairs will not owe taxes.
Payment Receipt template included at the end of this document (or create your own receipt to
use). If an au pair receives more than $3,650 in weekly stipends during a calendar year (January 1 through December 31), s/he is required to pay income tax with the exception of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Depending on what time of the year the au pair arrives, it is possible that he or she will make below the minimum amount required for taxation in that year. Often, au pairs who are in the United States for less than 4 months in a calendar year do not owe taxes.
au pairs areBy April 15, the au pair should use Form 1040NR-EZ or Form 1040NR to report his/her au pair wages for the previous calendar year. (e.g. on April 15 2011, tax returns are due for wages earned between January 1 and December 31, 2010.) You will need some record of the stipend payments you received from your host family, so please be sure to use the Stipend
*Please note the au pair year end completion bonus is not subject to taxation.*
For au pairs who do owe taxes, the amount is usually roughly equal to one to two weeks’
stipend. Au pairs should plan ahead to have these funds available in April when they submit
their tax returns. (Taxes on income earned between January 1 through December 31 are
always due on the following April 15. Long lines at the post office on April 15 to mail tax returns
are an American tradition!) Au pairs who have already left the United States by April 15 may
submit their tax return early before they go, or they can submit it online using a third-party
service.
If an au pair wants the host family to withhold taxes from the weekly stipend, s/he must ask the
host family to do so. Otherwise, the host family will not withhold taxes, and the au pair will need
to have funds available for payment of taxes due, if any, at the end of the year. Au pairs are
not
eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Hope Credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit. An
au pair is not really a "student" in the United States, and therefore is
her au pair wages from gross income under the student article of any U.S. income tax treaty.
**The information above applies to
Unemployment Tax (FUTA) and the au pair may need to pay FICA tax.**
not eligible to exclude his/most au pairs, because most au pairs are considered “nonresident aliens.” However, if the au pair had previously been in the United States as a student, teacher, trainee, or researcher in F, J, M, or Q nonimmigrant status before becoming an au pair, then the au pair might be considered a “resident alien” during his/her current stay in the United States. In this case, the host family and au pair should consult a tax advisor, because the host family may need to withhold Social Security and Medicare taxes and pay Federal
3) Additional Resources:
IRS forms for au pair tax returns:
♦
Form 1040NR-EZ: Nearly all au pairs can use this form to submit tax returns.
·
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040nre.pdf
·
Instructions: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040nre.pdf
♦
Applying for a Social Security Number for J-1 Visa holders:
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10181.html
♦
Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov or 1-800-829-1040
♦
IRS info about au pairs:
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/international/article/0,,id=96420,00.html
If you have any questions, please consult directly with the resources listed above so that you
can receive definitive answers regarding your specific situation. AuPairCare is not licensed to
provide official tax advice, so we cannot counsel host families or au pairs regarding program fee and wage inquiries. Tax laws vary from state to state, so we encourage host families and au
pairs to consult with a local professional tax advisor or directly with the Internal Revenue
Service for any specific questions regarding taxation.

We know that the issue of taxes can be confusing regarding the au pair program, so AuPairCare is pleased to provide you with some general guidelines regarding childcare tax issues. We hope this information will provide a resource for you to prepare for a conversation with your own tax advisor or the IRS. Please consult with your personal tax advisor or the IRS for definitive answers regarding your own situation. For your convenience, links to websites with more detailed information and links to key tax forms are included here.

AuPairCare Video for au pair care in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

Check out this video that explains the benefits of having an au pair for child care in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg.

Click here AuPairCare Video

A variety of Program Options for au pairs in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

A Variety of Program Options

The Standard Program

Au Pair Care's standard au pair program is a year-long experience, combining dedicated au pair childcare and cultural exchange. Au pairs provide up to 45 hours of care per week, not to exceed 10 hours per day. Hours are flexible, so you can work with your au pair to create a schedule to accommodate your family's needs. View au pair responsibilities.

The Infant Specialized Au Pair Program

This unique program provides host families who have infants with a trained au pair who specializes in infant care giving and development. Infant Specialized Au Pairs have considerable experience caring for infants and attend Au Pair Care's 4-day hands-on training program that includes infant CPR certification, infant massage and baby sign language. Infant Specialized au pairs provide up to 45 hours of infant care per week, not to exceed 10 hours per day. Learn more about our Infant Specialized Au Pair Program.

The Extension Program

Both you and your au pair will have the option to extend your program for an additional 6, 9 or 12 months. The Au Pair Care's Extension Program is a wonderful opportunity to provide your family with continuous au pair childcare for up to 24 months. Learn more about Au Pair Care's Extension Program.

“The continuity of having an au pair brought my family peace of mind knowing we had someone helping us each and every day.” – The White Family

AuPairCare High-Quality Child Care Creates Smarter Kids in Virginia, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg

Summary: Studies show that high-quality child care, such as the live-in child care offered by AuPairCare, contributes to higher achievement scores in adolescents.

San Francisco, CA – July 15, 2010 – As children go back to school this fall, one of the most important tools for success is not a good breakfast or new school supplies – but high-quality child care, such as the live-in child care offered by AuPairCare international au pairs. As reported by a national research study published in Child Development magazine, good child care not only affects children during the preschool years, but could create a significant difference in academic development and performance during adolescence as well.

According to Child Development, children are better prepared for school when they are placed in high-quality child care – defined as routine child care provided by warm caregivers that are both sensitive to children’s needs and offer cognitive stimulation of the children in their care. When tested during their adolescent years, children who had been in higher-quality child care scored higher on cognitive and academic achievement tests than peers who had been in lower-quality care.

AuPairCare is a high-quality child care option that provides families with carefully screened au pairs that have experience and interest in caring for children, while also offering second language learning and cultural awareness. AuPairCare recruits its au pairs from more than 40 countries around the world, affording a wide array of international au pairs that can immerse children in a new language and culture through long-term exposure and reinforcement.

“We did our research and AuPairCare was the best option – not only was it the most affordable, flexible solution, but also provided added benefits such as a low child to caregiver ratio, consistent care from the same person and the convenience of home child care,” according to Alison and Jack Stiefel, host parents with AuPairCare.

Research also shows that introducing children to a second language as early as possible fosters healthy brain development, encourages positive social skills, and lays a solid foundation for effective communication skills that last a lifetime. Not only does teaching a second language to children help enhance their cognitive development, resulting in better grades and higher test scores later in life- but children who have studied foreign languages also tend to score higher on standardized tests, including both verbal and math portions of the SAT.

“AuPairCare’s host parents tend to be smart, motivated parents who want only the best child care and education for their children,” said Heidi Woehl, vice president of AuPairCare. “These parents love the au pair program because their children receive safe, high-quality care and are exposed to new languages and cultures that stimulate their learning and exposure to the world.”

About AuPairCare

AuPairCare is a leading au pair agency providing live-in childcare services to American families since 1989. Designated by the U.S. Department of State, AuPairCare offers superior childcare to fit families’ unique needs. AuPairCare has made more than 40,000 successful au pair placements across the U.S. AuPairCare is a division of Intrax Cultural Exchange, a family of organizations devoted to cultivating international understanding through cultural exchange and educational programs, with operations in more than 80 countries worldwide. Visit us at http://www.aupaircare.com/ for more information.