Kids have a lot on their plates these days — school, homework, after-school activities, and maybe even some chores at home. It’s easy for them to feel like they’re drowning in responsibilities. That’s where having an au pair can make a huge difference.
Au pairs do more than just watch over kids; they can also be an extra set of hands when it comes to schoolwork and learning. Let’s look at how having an au pair around can keep kids on track academically, while still making it fun.
Turning Homework Time into Learning Time
Homework can feel like a mountain for kids, especially after a long day of classes. Imagine having someone there who can sit down, help them get organized, and explain things in a way that makes sense. That’s what an au pair can do.
Instead of parents rushing through assignments after a full workday, an au pair can step in. They can break down math problems, review spelling words, or go over a tricky science project. Since many au pairs are young adults who have recently finished school themselves, they remember what it’s like to struggle with assignments. They can explain things in a way that’s easy to understand — not too formal and not too complicated.
This kind of support can be a game changer for kids who feel overwhelmed or frustrated with their schoolwork. Plus, having someone to work with regularly can help them get into a good study routine, making homework time less stressful and more productive.
Learning a New Language Without Even Trying
Many au pairs come from other countries, bringing not just their culture but also their language. This can be a big deal for kids. Learning a new language in a classroom is one thing, but having someone around who actually speaks it every day is a completely different experience.
For example, a child might pick up French while helping their au pair bake a batch of cookies or learn some Spanish while playing a game of Uno. These casual, everyday moments make language learning feel natural instead of like a boring lesson.
Families who want to introduce their kids to another language can find au pairs who speak that language through an agency like Go Au Pair. It’s a simple way to open a child’s mind to new cultures and ways of thinking without making it feel like extra work.
Creating Study Habits That Stick
Some kids dive right into their homework as soon as they get home, while others need a little more encouragement. An au pair can help with that. They can create a study schedule that fits around other activities, like soccer practice or piano lessons, and make sure kids stick to it.
But it’s not just about sticking to a schedule. An au pair can also show kids how to break down big projects into smaller, manageable chunks. Instead of tackling a huge book report all at once, they can work on it a little bit each day. This approach not only makes homework less intimidating but also teaches kids valuable time management skills that they can use long after their au pair has left.
Making Learning Fun and Engaging
Kids learn best when they’re having fun. And au pairs are great at turning everyday activities into learning experiences. A walk around the neighborhood can turn into a nature scavenger hunt. A baking session can become a lesson in fractions and measurements.
Au pairs can also share hobbies and interests that spark a child’s curiosity. Maybe they’re good at drawing and can teach a few art techniques. Or perhaps they love music and can show how to play a simple song on the guitar. These activities don’t feel like “learning,” but they’re still teaching valuable skills and keeping kids’ minds active.
Supporting Emotional Learning, Too
School isn’t just about reading and math. It’s also a place where kids learn how to deal with emotions, handle stress, and get along with others. Sometimes, kids need a safe space to talk about what’s bothering them — a fight with a friend, a tough test, or feeling left out at recess.
An au pair can be that safe space. They’re someone kids can talk to who isn’t a parent or teacher but still cares. And because au pairs spend so much time with the kids, they get to know them really well. They can pick up on signs that a child is struggling and offer a listening ear or a comforting word.
Having this kind of emotional support can make a big difference in how kids handle the ups and downs of school life. It’s not just about getting good grades; it’s about feeling seen, heard, and understood.
Bridging the Gap During Breaks
School breaks can be a great time to relax, but they can also be a time when kids forget what they’ve learned. That’s why having an au pair around can be especially helpful during summer, winter, or spring breaks.
Instead of letting reading or math skills slide, an au pair can keep kids’ minds active with fun learning activities. They might plan a science experiment, start a weekly book club, or go on educational outings to the zoo or museum. These experiences keep kids engaged and curious without making them feel like they’re still in school.
Plus, because au pairs are already part of the family, kids feel comfortable learning from them. It’s not like being forced into a summer school program — it’s just hanging out with a cool older sibling who happens to know some fun stuff.
Encouraging a Growth Mindset
It’s easy for kids to get discouraged when they don’t do well on a test or struggle with a new concept. An au pair can help kids see these challenges as opportunities to learn, not reasons to give up.
For instance, if a child is having trouble with multiplication, the au pair might say, “Let’s try it a different way” instead of “You’re wrong.” This positive approach can teach kids that it’s okay to make mistakes and that learning is a process.
Over time, this can build a growth mindset — the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and practice. This mindset doesn’t just help kids in school; it helps them in life.
Staying Ahead in More Ways Than One
An au pair isn’t just someone who watches the kids while parents work. They’re mentors, tutors, and even friends. They help kids with homework, make learning fun, teach new languages, and offer emotional support. They also model how to handle challenges, manage time, and keep a positive attitude when things get tough.
For families looking to give their kids a little extra support, choosing an au pair can be a smart move. Not only do kids get the academic boost they need, but they also gain a friend and role model who genuinely cares about them.
And that’s what staying ahead in school is really all about — having someone in your corner who believes in you and helps you believe in yourself.
