Using a schedule to organise au pair activities
Creating a schedule is essential for organising an au pair's duties, ensuring that both the host family and the au pair are clear on when working hours start and free time begins. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and keeps everyone on the same page.
How to manage the au pair schedule
To make the most of the au pair's time, the weekly schedule should cover all regular duties, appointments and any special activities for the week. Here's what you might include:
School Drop-offs and Pick-ups: when the au pair needs to take the children to school and bring them home.
Meal Preparation: specific times when the au pair should start preparing meals for the children.
Babysitting Duties: clearly marked days when the au pair is expected to babysit.
Children's Appointments: any appointments that require the au pair's assistance, such as doctor visits or extracurricular activities.
Why a Schedule Matters
A well-planned schedule offers a clear overview of daily plans, helping both the au pair and the host family stay organised. The au pair can plan their free time and language courses around the schedule, while the host family can arrange their activities knowing when the au pair is available.
Our tip:
Before the au pair arrives, it's a good idea for the family and the au pair to discuss and agree on basic duties and expectations. This upfront conversation helps avoid any potential issues later on.
Example of an au pair daily routine based on a schedule
Since every host family has unique needs, an au pair's daily routine will vary. Some au pairs might have mornings free, while others might have more flexibility in the afternoon or evening. To make sure everything runs smoothly, it's important that both the au pair and the host family work together to fill in and discuss the schedule according to their specific needs.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 a.m. | Wake up kids Prepare breakfast Get kids dressed |
| 8:00 a.m. | Bring kids to school or kindergarten |
| 8:30 a.m. | Tidy kids' rooms Vacuum or do laundry |
| 10:00 a.m. | Au pair free time Language course ( 10:00 - 12:00) |
| 3:00 p.m. | Pick up kids from school or kindergarten Take Peter to piano lesson Take Carmen to gymnastics practice |
| 4:30 p.m. | Pick up kids from after-school activities |
| 6:00 p.m. | Family dinner together Help with cleaning up the kitchen |
| 8:00 p.m. | Bring the kids to bed |
