In the summer of 2023, I embarked on an unforgettable journey as an au pair in Spain. For three incredible months, I immersed myself in the vibrant culture of Catalonia. I was surrounded by stunning landscapes, my stomach was filled with savory paella, and most importantly, I was integrated into the lives of a wonderful family. Looking back, I can confidently say that this experience was one of enrichment. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who genuinely enjoys being around children and has the desire to live abroad.
The Arrival
Arriving in Spain was a whirlwind of excitement and nervous anticipation. I was greeted at the airport by my eclectic host parents and their energetic toddler. The initial adjustment period was filled with hugs, laughter and an exchange of the goodies I had brought from the States. It didn’t take long for us to bond, and I really did feel at home pretty much instantly.
Daily Life as an Au Pair
My typical day as an au pair involved a mix of childcare, light household chores, and cultural exchange. I “worked” Monday through Friday and had Saturday and Sunday to myself.
The main part of my week was getting my host sister to and from school. Mornings were filled with the “fun” of waking up a 3 year old. The initial wakeup call was followed by a bit of breakfast chaos and school preparation. After I took my host sister to school, I had a few hours to myself. I usually had enough time to eat breakfast and get a workout in before it was time to pick her up for lunch.
Her lunch break lasted 2 hours, so we’d have lunch together and spend the rest of the time playing games around the house. Playing with chalk, painting her nails and watching TV were some of her favorite things to do. After her lunch break we’d return to school and I’d have a couple of more hours to myself, until it was time to pick her up from school. I picked her up from school and we’d hang out for an hour before one of her parents arrived home to relieve me for the day. My days always ended around 4:30 p.m..
Cultural Immersion
Living with a local family gave me a unique perspective on Spanish culture. From family dinners featuring delicious local dishes to weekend excursions exploring nearby beaches and historic sites, I experienced Spain in a way that most tourists never do. The family was eager to share their traditions, and I loved learning about everything from local festivals to regional cuisine.
Additionally, my Spanish language skills improved significantly during my stay. Speaking with my host sister and her parents every day allowed me to practice in a fun and relaxed environment. I even picked up a few local phrases and expressions that made me feel more connected to the culture.
Challenges Along the Way
The initial adjustment period was tough at times. I found myself navigating the balance of being an individual while living within a family unit. There were moments of frustration, but these were always outweighed by the joy of building relationships and creating lasting memories.
While I truly enjoyed my experience as an au pair, it wouldn’t be truthful to say it was always perfect. I faced challenges and bumps along the way—some unavoidable and others that could have been prevented had I asked a few more questions before choosing a host family. Before you embark on your au pair journey, be sure to check out my post highlighting the most important questions I asked prospective host families, along with some that I wish I’d asked.
One of the toughest parts of my day was getting my host sister to and from school. Although she was a bright little girl and adored by her classmates, there were days when she simply did not want to go to school—what three-year-old does? This was especially challenging because she often woke up looking for her parents, who had already left for work. Since her parents wanted her to have lunch at home every day, I not only had to manage getting her to school in the morning but also had to do it again after lunch. Most days, the return trip was even harder; she was usually reluctant to leave playtime behind to return back to school.
The school was only a 15-minute walk for me on my own, but with a toddler in tow, the journey often stretched closer to 45 minutes. Some days, it felt like all I accomplished was walking back and forth to her school!
Additionally, balancing my responsibilities as an au pair with my desire to explore the city and surrounding areas was sometimes tricky. However, I learned the importance of open communication with my host family. They were supportive in helping me carve out time for my own adventures, which made a significant difference in my overall experience. I even managed to squeeze in some weekend trips and local explorations, enriching my time in Spain even further.
Ultimately, the challenges I faced helped me grow, teaching me patience and adaptability. Every struggle was a step toward deeper connections with my host family and a richer cultural experience.
A Heartfelt Recommendation
Reflecting on my time as an au pair in Spain, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If you enjoy being around children and are looking for a meaningful way to travel, this opportunity is worth considering. Not only did I gain invaluable childcare experience, but I also developed lifelong friendships and a deeper appreciation for a culture that will always hold a special place in my heart. I have already gone back to visit my family and I plan to do so again in the future!
Whether you’re seeking a summer adventure or a longer commitment, au pairing offers a unique blend of work and play that is hard to beat. If you’re ready to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and create unforgettable memories, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the plunge. You never know what amazing adventures await you!
