Wanderlust Cultural Homestay Tutoring (Au Pair in China) Program

Name: Wanderlust Cultural Homestay Tutoring (Au Pair in China) Program
Brand: Wanderlust Exchange
SKU: 100168
Rating: 4.73 (118 reviews)

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4.73 Rating

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Location

China
- Shanghai
- Beijing
- Hangzhou
- Ningbo
- Shenzhen

Length

52+ weeks

Program Tags

Au Pair Cultural Immersion Hands-On Learning Jobs Language Immersion Study Abroad Teach Abroad Work Exchanges

General grants/scholarships, Work study, Work exchange

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Program Details

Timeframe

Academic Year Fall Spring Summer Winter Year Round

Housing

Host Family

Primary Language

English

Age Min.

Age Max

Pricing

Price Details

You do not pay any program fee, but you will be in charge of your own flights (however, flights stipend will be offered during your stay).

Program time span: 3-12 months
You give: 30 hours of childcare&English tutoring per week
You get: 2000 RMB pocket money/month
You get: Up to 12000 RMB as ticket stipend
You get: 8-10 hours of Mandarin classes/week
You get: Monthly culture activities
You get: 1.5 days off/week
You get: Medical insurance
You get: visa application fee&renewal reimbursement
Program fee: $0

What's Included

Accommodation Activities Airfare Domestic Airfare Airport Transfers Meals Tour Guide Travel Insurance Visa Wifi

What's Included (Extra)

* Mandarin classes
* Culture activities
* Medical insurance
* 24/7 support
* Orientation and sightseeing tour
* Airport pick-up

Last Updated: Jan 18, 2024

Last Reviewed: Apr 24, 2025

Wish List

96 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Wanderlust Au Pair China Program integrates educational travel, Mandarin learning, childcare and English tutoring together for overseas youngsters to experience China with an authentic touch by staying with Chinese host families.

By offering 30 hours of live-in childcare and English teaching per week, you have an opportunity to explore Chinese culture through weekly Mandarin classes, culture immersion activities held by Wanderlust and your day-to-day colorful life with your host family.

We are culture enthusiasts, we love different languages, we love the tenderness in your eyes when you see children's smile. Fundamentally, we love what we do: helping you go through an off-beat experience that could potentially change your life.

Find your second home in China!

Program fee: 0 $

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Impact 🌎

Ethical Impact

Participants in this program receive an array of benefits to enhance their journey. From fully covered return flights to free Mandarin classes and engaging cultural activities, every aspect is designed to ensure a rewarding experience. Additionally, you’ll receive a stipend to cover personal expenses, making it easier to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of your host city.

This program goes beyond just a summer abroad; it’s an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. By living with a Chinese family, you’ll gain insights into the daily life and traditions of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, all while contributing to a global exchange of ideas and perspectives. This journey will equip you with the skills and understanding needed to thrive in an increasingly connected world.

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Program Highlights

Experience authentic Chinese culture through living with a host family!
Flight stipend up to 1800 USD
Mandarin course paid by your host family
Monthly culture activities
Scholarship up to 1300 USD for TEFL certified participants!

Related Programs

Program Reviews

4.73 Rating

based on 118 reviews

Leave a Review

Rating Spread Gap Year

5 rating 76.27%
4 rating 22.03%
3 rating 0%
2 rating 1.69%
1 rating 0%

Housing 4.85
Support 4.65
Fun 4.5
Value 4.7
Safety 4.9

Good for Students, Solo Travelers, Adventure travelers

Showing 41 - 48 of 118 reviews

My experience as an au-pair in Shanghai has truly been one of a kind! The family, culture, food, city, friends, Mandarin classes, new lifestyle...... everything was amazing. While it took some time to get used to this new life in one of the biggest cities in the world, the experience was completely worth it. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have lived with such welcoming host family, tutor adorable kids English and be like a bigger sister to them, while also being able to learn Mandarin, explore Shanghai and meet so many amazing people here! For those who are looking for immersion in Chinese culture, working as an English educator, building meaningful connections and making precious memories - Au-pair program in China with Wanderlust Exchange might just be what you are looking for.

What was your funniest moment?

Working with children opens possibilities to hear the most bizarre and funny sentences ever. One of the funniest moments was when I was playing "would you rather?" game with my 7y.o. girl, and to the question " Would you rather know every language or could play every instrument?" she very confidently said "Every language, because when I will go to Japan I will say "Bonjour" ". It genuinely made me laugh!

Pros

Getting to know Chinese culture and experience it first-hand
Making meaningful connections with the host family and new friends
Learning Mandarin

Cons

Work with children can be more tiring than imagined
Inevitably being exposed to family's personal problems can be quite awkward

My adventure in Shanghai is about to end soon and I am sad I’ll have to leave. I have been working with one of the most loving and caring family I have ever met. Since day one, I have been treated like a family member and this made my experience very special. I am taking care of two adorable little girls with which I created a genuine and unique special bond: they are like my sisters now. I love spending time with them both when it comes to playing or studying. The parents are also very kind to me and always made their best to make me feel home. I will definitely stay in touch with them and visit them in the future. This was a once in a lifetime adventure that I will always remember. A huge thank you to Wanderlust Exchange for making it happen. ❤️

Pros

I learned Chinese very quickly, the school program is intense but very good
I made lots of friends here in Shanghai, friends for life
The city of Shanghai is huge and has a lot to offer

Cons

You can get homesick sometimes
Losing my total independence was not always easy as I was used to live by myself for years

If you’re seeking to discover China through the perspective of a local and enjoy looking after children, this is the programme for you! The programme gives you a unique insight into China, immersing you in all aspects: the language via daily language classes, food and the culture. Not only this, but you get to see the child(ren) you look after and teach develop their English abilities!

I can’t recommend more the programme: the three months I spent in Beijing was truly one of the best times of my life. It was stimulating and jam packed with new experiences: from trips to Shanghai and Datong to trying all the different regional hotpots! So much so that I’ve already got my next trip to China planned!

Pros

Truly immersive cultural programme
Cost effective way to visit China for students

My experience of being an Au Pair in Hangzhou was fantastic. I stayed here for 3 Months which was too short, I'd like to continue my great life here in China. The family was really nice and I quickly had a great connection with the Au Pair kid. Teaching him English and how to play tennis was an unique experience which I wouldn't have liked to miss. In my freetime I got around in the province Zhejiang which has wonderful cities like Shaoxing, Ningbo, Shanghai and of course Hangzhou with the pretty West Lake. Although there weren't many Au Pairs in my area I quickly got to know foreigners from the Chinese class and some soccer groups. My Chinese improved a lot in those 3 Months even though I was talking mostly in English to the Au Pair kid because his English was already on a high level. The family offered me to always come back to China and made me receive this unforgettable stay! I recommend this to anyone who wants to have a new life in an Asian country and wants to have an special period of life in his/her CV.

Pros

Luxurious living
Nice people, family
Language improvements

Cons

Not that many au pairs in Hangzhou

I had an incredible experience with the au pair agency. The support I received throughout the entire process was truly exceptional. From the moment I signed up, the staff was incredibly helpful and attentive to my needs. They guided me through the application, interview, and matching process with patience and understanding. The agency's team went above and beyond to address any concerns I had, making sure I felt completely prepared for my new adventure as an au pair. Their genuine kindness and approachability made me feel like part of a caring community. Their attention to detail really put my mind at ease and allowed me to focus on forming meaningful connections with my host family. I'm so grateful for the support I received from the agency. If you're looking for an au pair agency that truly cares about your experience, I wholeheartedly recommend them.

Pros

Their support was outstanding, guiding me at every step.
The staff's warmth and friendliness made me feel at home
They emphasized safety, offering resources for a secure experience.

Cons

Choices of host families were a bit restricted, yet they found good matches.
The visa application had intricate steps, but their help made it easier.

Response from Wanderlust Exchange

Dear Eszti，

Your feedback truly warms our hearts, and we're grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of your au pair journey. It's incredibly rewarding to hear that your experience with our agency was nothing short of exceptional.

We're thrilled to have been by your side every step of the way, from the initial sign-up to your journey as an au pair. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of support, and your kind words about our helpfulness and attentiveness mean a lot to us. It's wonderful to know that our guidance through the application, interview, and matching process was of value to you.

At Wanderlust Exchange, we believe that addressing concerns and ensuring your comfort is paramount. We're delighted that our efforts helped you feel well-prepared for this exciting chapter of your life. Creating a sense of community and belonging is at the core of our mission, and we're glad that our genuine kindness and approachability made you feel connected and cared for.

Your mention of our attention to detail is heartening. We understand that the little things can make a big difference, and we're pleased that this allowed you to focus on what truly matters – forming those meaningful connections with your host family and embracing the cultural exchange experience.

Your recommendation means the world to us. Knowing that you wholeheartedly endorse our agency is a testament to the dedication and passion we pour into each au pair's journey.

As you continue to create cherished memories and connections, please know that we're here to support you in any way we can. Your journey is an inspiration, and we're excited to see where it leads you.

Wishing you continued joy, growth, and unforgettable experiences as an au pair.

Warm regards,

Wanderlust Exchange

By Wanderlust Exchange on August 21, 2023

I had an incredible experience with the au pair agency. The support I received throughout the entire process was truly exceptional. From the moment I signed up, the staff was incredibly helpful and attentive to my needs. They guided me through the application, interview, and matching process with patience and understanding. The agency's team went above and beyond to address any concerns I had, making sure I felt completely prepared for my new adventure as an au pair. Their genuine kindness and approachability made me feel like part of a caring community. One of the things that stood out the most was the emphasis on safety. The agency took extensive measures to ensure my well-being, providing comprehensive information and resources. This attention to detail really put my mind at ease and allowed me to focus on forming meaningful connections with my host family. I'm so grateful for the support I received from the agency. If you're looking for an au pair agency that truly cares about your experience, I wholeheartedly recommend them.

Pros

Their support was outstanding, guiding me at every step.
The staff's warmth and friendliness made me feel at home.
They emphasized safety, offering resources for a secure experience.

Cons

Choices of host families were a bit restricted, yet they found good matches.

on july 2023 i got an opportunity ti be an aupair in china with wonderlust organization. i am an international student in china and i wanted to utilize my summer break and decided to be an aupair.

It is my first time being an Au pair and wonderlust organization did a great job ,I love how informative and accommodating they were to me,i appreciated them giving us orentation . It opened my eyes to what to expect and it gave me a professional view of how to conduct myself with the family. they gave me crucial information, especially about cultural differences. it helped me a lot to prepare myself mentally and gave me a little bit of a glimpse of what to expect.

Living as an au pair, I had the chance Immersing myself in Chinese culture and having the opportunity to live like the Chinese people, I feel blessed. I got to eat things I never knew were edible like bamboo shoots when I opened my eye wide enough, I saw new ways to make friends, I saw how people work hard and sacrifice for their families, I saw how the Chinese government brought people out of poverty, I got a thriving entrepreneurial spirit and a new way of appreciating the world.

the programme fullfilled my expectation and even more.

Pros

great service
chinese classes
accomodating host

Cons

none

Response from Wanderlust Exchange

Dear Samira，

We were thrilled to read your review and learn about your incredible experience as an au pair with Wanderlust Exchange in China. It warms our hearts to know that your first-time au pair journey was made memorable by our organization.

It's wonderful to hear that our informative and accommodating approach resonated with you. Providing a comprehensive orientation and insights into cultural differences is essential for a successful cross-cultural experience, and we're delighted that it helped you prepare both mentally and professionally for your role within the host family.

Immersing yourself in the Chinese culture and lifestyle sounds like an enriching experience. From trying new foods to observing the strong work ethic and family values, it's evident that you've truly embraced the essence of cultural exchange. Your observations about the thriving entrepreneurial spirit and newfound appreciation for the world resonate deeply with our mission of fostering meaningful connections and understanding across borders.

Wishing you all the best for the remaining duration of your adventure and your future endeavors. Keep embracing every moment and savoring the unique experiences that await you.

Warm regards,

Wanderlust Exchange

By Wanderlust Exchange on August 21, 2023

I was excited to move to shanghai, I was paired with a good family. They gave me my own apartment(which is rare,I still live in it). The family was really shy at first because their english is not so good,but the little boy was really good at speaking nglish so he often translated between me and his mom.

We had our own lessons on Saturdays just the women, while the boys went out to play or toy shopping.We had some fun days inside, but due to the pandemic we often stay inside and play with legos and Elsa with his younger sister all day.I mostly have the whole family eating vegan during the week because I don't eat meat, but its random occasions that they will eat no meat. But they enjoy the no meat because they want to be more healthier so I was glad I could leave them with a piece of who I am. We've finally completed all of his english books before I left the family. I check on the kids often they are always sad to see me leave, they sometimes cry, so I check on them as much as I can after work.

It was nice being with this family.

What was your funniest moment?

taking the kids on the metro to go to the mall,They had never been on the train before so they were excited and scared at the same time. It was so cute.

Questions & Answers

what should i expect in the first month or so after moving to China?

Hello Joanna, Thank you for your question and interest in Wanderlust Au Pair China Program. I would like to answer your questions in three aspects: how au pairs can get ready for their trip to China; what support they will have from Wanderlust; what's to be expected of your daily life with the host family. In regards to how au pairs can get themselves prepared for the trip to China, here are some...

By Wanderlust Exchange on March 26, 2018

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose this program because I already knew that I want to travel around after finishing school and learn more about different countries. I also love to work with children and teach them. China has always been a country that I am really interested in. So becoming an Au Pair in China was the best option for me. I can work with children and experience the Chinese life.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

The Agency really helped me with everything. Before I came here I applied for the visa and filled out a lot of forms but I could always text the company and they always helped me. So even when I needed to organize something on my own they helped me a lot. If I had questions I could always text them and they would answer me very fast. So the Agency helped me with everything and because of that I didn’t have any problems in China.

View Entire Interview

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

You need to be very open minded. China is a different country with a different culture. If you come here and start to live with a Chinese family it’s very different from what you are used to. So try to be open minded for everything. Don’t be afraid to try new things. If you do that you will adapt very fast to the Chinese life.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

It depends on your host family. But normally you will have 1 1/2 days off in the week and work for 7 hours a day. If the children go to school you will have more freetime. The families want you to teach the children English. So you will read a Lot of English books with them and talk a lot of English with them. In the freetime you can go out with friends. On the weekends the families go out very often and you can see a lot of things of the city.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was that I don’t like it and that I can’t adapt to the Chinese life. I was afraid that I don’t get along with my hostfamily. In the end everything was just a fear. My family is super nice and could adapt very fast to the Chinese life. I really love it in China and I learned a lot of new things through this experience. This experience really helped me to grow. You can overcome your fears if you just try out everything and don’t be afraid of something new.

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Lilian Liu

Program

Wanderlust Cultural Homestay Tutoring (Au Pair in China) Program

Job Title

Project Coordinator

Lilian was born and raised in Shanghai, then studied in the UK and Australia. She moved to Sydney for work and decided to come back to Shanghai in 2018.

She started a small art classroom in Shanghai in August 2018, and because of her passion for international cultural exchange, she joined Wanderlust Exchange as a part-time project coordinator and starting to help running the company's Au Pair program in China.

What is your favorite travel memory?

My best travel memory would be to the small town in Germany named Regensburg. When we got there, it was their festival season; every shop is closed, and we saw people in traditional costumes celebrating on the streets.

We sat in front of the local church just to see how the sun moved on the church and cast beautiful shadows on the street. We felt so peaceful and joyous.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

This job really gives me a chance to get to know people from every corner of the world. I met people from Northern European countries as well as South America. Not only I get to share with them my cultures and heritages, but I also get to know their distinctive cultures and lifestyles when communicating with them. I made friends with some of our au pairs and volunteers, which I think it will be a life long friendship.

View Entire Interview

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Yes, we actually have many positive feedbacks from our au pairs and volunteers. One of the best stories I've heard is between our au pair in Ningbo and her host family.

They had such a great bonding that the kids really saw her as a close big sister and they wanted to be with her all the time, even wanted to sleep together with her. By the time she had to leave, both the au pair and the family were very emotional, but they still keep in touch with each other from time to time. This could be something that lasts for a lifetime for both the au pair and the family. Not to mention that the au pair's Chinese language skills also improved quite a lot during the program.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

I would definitely choose to be an au pair. Because this will give you the most authentic experience of what it's like living in China. For those who are interested in learning the Chinese language as well as the cultures, it will offer you a lot more than you can imagine. You get to see and experience so many things that you will not experience if you just come here as a student and live on campus.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Our company is unique because of the fact that we put great effort in enhancing the experience of both our au pair program candidates and family candidates. We will provide service throughout the entire process and until the au pair leaves the family. We try to make each and every candidate feel they are taken care of and their needs will be attended to.

I was especially proud of seeing the growth of our team. We are a small but close-knit team. We share the same values and goals, and we also share a lot of common interests, which makes the work much more enjoyable. We have sharing sessions each week to share and discuss different interesting topics. We truly care for each other and aim to bring out the best outcome in our work.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I think passion is really important so that the team can really have the motivation to keep improving and keep growing. Also, sharing the same values and goals is equally important so that you can truly work as a team and try to think about what will be the best for the team and the company. Wanderlust Exchange has both qualities, so I believe we are on our way to be successful.

About Wanderlust Exchange

Wanderlust Exchange combines travel with educational exchange opportunities through several programs where participants have the opportunity to learn Mandarin, teach English as an au pair, volunteer with children, act as a cultural ambassador, or even coach tennis. Each of our programs encourages cultural immersion and exchange by giving...

Program Details

Pricing

Program Highlights

LTL Language School || Learn Chinese (11 Cities)

LoPair Au Pair China: Learn. Care. Explore.

Shanghai Internship Program with CRCC Asia

Response from Wanderlust Exchange

Response from Wanderlust Exchange

what should i expect in the first month or so after moving to China?

Alumni Interviews

Soraya Shirin Stuehmer

Why did you choose this program?

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

Staff Interviews

Lilian Liu

What is your favorite travel memory?

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

LTL Language School || Learn Chinese (11 Cities)

LoPair Au Pair China: Learn. Care. Explore.

Shanghai Internship Program with CRCC Asia