Julieta Araujo, known on TikTok as @julieta.araujo79, went viral with a video in which she answers a straightforward question: "Do parents charge rent to their teenage children?" In the clip, which has garnered over 31.6 thousand likes, the young woman explains the conditions of the Au Pair program for those coming to work as nannies in the United States.
Julieta, who shares content online about her experience as a nanny for teenagers in the United States, explained that as an au pair, she does not pay rent or for food, and even receives a car for personal use and phone data. However, she clarified that not all families offer the same benefits. "They give us a card to buy what we need, but in return, we take care of their children and receive a salary of 200 dollars per week," she explained. She added that the minimum wage in this program is around 195 dollars for 45 hours a week, although some families pay more.
The video sparked a wave of divided comments, with some expressing interest in the program and others questioning the low salary. “$200 a week? I earn that in three hours cleaning houses”; “Is it mandatory to be fluent in English?”; “I get paid the same for babysitting for 4 hours!”; and “That’s too little, and families take advantage, especially with young children,” said some users. Others showed enthusiasm for the idea of participating in the program, asking for information about requirements such as minimum age, English proficiency, or necessary documents.
Julieta also addressed some questions, mentioning that it is not possible to engage in other work during the program and that expenses such as medicines or clothing must be covered separately. However, she emphasized that the program is an option for those who wish to travel and live in the United States while working as child caregivers.
The debate continues to grow in the comments, with some considering the salary insufficient for the amount of work, while others see this experience as an opportunity to travel and save on housing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Au Pair Program in the United States
What is the Au Pair program and what benefits does it offer?
The Au Pair program allows young foreigners to work as nannies in the United States. Participants do not have to pay for rent or meals. Additionally, they may receive benefits such as access to a car and a card for personal expenses, although this varies depending on the host family.
How much do you earn as an Au Pair in the United States?
The minimum salary for an Au Pair is approximately $195 for 45 hours a week, although some families may offer more. This amount is considered low by some, especially when compared to other jobs like cleaning or babysitting, which pay more for fewer hours.
What are the requirements to be an Au Pair in the United States?
To participate in the Au Pair program, it is necessary to meet certain requirements, such as having a minimum age, a basic level of English, and the necessary documents to travel to the U.S. Working in another capacity during the program is not allowed.
Is the salary from Au Pair enough to live in the United States?
The salary of an Au Pair is considered sufficient to cover basic expenses, as they do not pay for rent or food. However, additional costs such as medicines or clothing must be covered by the Au Pair. This has sparked debate over whether the salary is fair in relation to the amount of work performed.
What opinions are there about the Au Pair program?
Opinions on the Au Pair program are divided. Some view it as an opportunity to travel and save on housing costs, while others criticize the low pay compared to the work performed. Interest in the program varies according to each participant's personal expectations.
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