AuPair in Beijing

I had a great experience with Yohoo AuPair. After finishing school I didn’t really know what to do, and I happened to read about the agency by accident. Since I had nothing to lose I thought I would just give it a try.

At first, I had an introductory call with the agency so they could get to know me better. After that, I filled out some information about myself and recorded an introduction video. They then told me they would start looking for a potential host family. I expected this to take quite some time, but after only a few weeks I already received a family profile.

I agreed to have a call with the mother and someone from the agency joined us to provide translation and support. After the call, the agency asked me how I felt about it and suggested another call so I could also get to know the two children (7 and 10 years old). I had a good feeling and agreed. The children were very shy so it was kind of a blind box how they would be in person but I thought I’ll just see myself. After the second call, we all came to the conclusion that we were a good match.

At that time, I still had two trips planned. One was already fixed, and the other was not fully arranged yet. I stayed in contact with the agency and they helped me organize everything so I would have enough time in China and for my other trip to South America before university starts. They also supported me with the visa process and all the necessary preparations.

In September, I went to Beijing to start the program. On my first day, I went out with a woman from the agency who helped me get a Chinese SIM card. She also asked the mother about her expectations and the daily schedule. At first, I felt a little anxious, especially after the woman left. However, I knew I could contact them at any time which gave me reassurance.

Over time, I realized that I truly matched with my host family. They were all incredibly kind and I never once felt the need to contact the agency for any complaints. Occasionally, we stayed in touch for cultural events with other au pairs where we did activities together such as taking pictures in traditional outfits or painting.

During my time in China, I also attended a language school. There, I had lessons with a very nice girl from Estonia and we spent a lot of time together during the day.

My weekly schedule was pretty convenient Three times a week, I went to school with the children in the morning. We always went with a driver who was very nice. On the other two days, I attended language school. The children came home at 5 p.m. and I had to be back at that time as well. We had dinner together and afterwards I played with the 7year old boy and did some reading with him. When the home tutor finished with the 10year old girl, I would read with her, and we often had lovely conversations. It was always impressive how good their English already was. I wouldn’t say I was really teaching them English. They already knew a lot but weren’t used to actively speaking it. I tried created an English speaking atmosphere where they could practice and build confidence.

On the weekends, I helped them with their English homework, played with them, went to their hobbies and accompanied them to their Sunday English class with the tutor or the mom. Sometimes the family had special activities planned such as going to Universal Studios for Halloween and they always took me with them.

I also had the opportunity to travel and visited five other cities during my stay. The family trusted me to take care of myself, which I truly appreciated. In general, I always felt comfortable expressing my needs and they were always willing to help.

They also had the loveliest nanny. Even though she didn’t speak English we still managed to communicate using a translator app and we had a great time together. She cooked the most amazing food. I still miss it every single day!

Looking back, I can clearly see that I had a positive influence on the children’s English skills. My biggest concern beforehand was that the family might regret getting an au pair, but I truly hope they don’t. I felt like a real part of the family.

Unfortunately, my time there was a bit short (3,5 months) because I didn’t have more time available. However, I would always come back if both the family and I had the opportunity again.

I would encourage anyone to take this chance. And really stay at least 3,5 months - the more the better if you have a good match. Of course, you need to be lucky with your host family. I was very lucky that we matched so well. It could have been different. I have heard that there is also an option to rematch if things don’t work out. I don’t know exactly how that process works but everyone at the agency was so kind and supportive that I believe they would provide great assistance if needed.

If you truly match with your host family, I promise you will have an amazing time and once you return home, you will definitely miss it!

Thank you, Yohoo AuPair, for this opportunity!