HaChans

There is also the problem of visa rules. I'm not sure about China, but I was an au pair in the US for two years, and the only legal way to go is through an agency. If you were to quit your contract ahead of time, you'd have a very short time to leave the country. Staying would make you an illegal immigrant. That's why some people, especially from poorer countries find an American guy, get married and stay. People from richer countries don't do that (unless it's out of love!). They go back home, get proper jobs with proper pay having enjoyed the experience for what it is - a cultural exchange program. Staying behind and overstaying your visa could easily get you a 10 year ban from the US. That's not a risk I'm willing to take at least. And I think it's the same for China.

And yes, AuPairCare and their competitors gets paid shitloads of money for their services. In comparison, au pairs get paid a lot less. However, you're supposed to be provided with housing, food, transportation options, insurance and so on. So you only really need pocket money.

I think an au pair in the US gets paid 160 bucks a week nowadays (might be more) for the first year. When I was there, it was 139 bucks. It was plenty enough to buy gas for the car when I was driving it, eat out all weekend with friends, save up for trips in the US and so on. I had a great time.

I'm on my knees day and night..?

Your description of your place of work seem exactly describe the place I live on floor up from. Not sure if it is that place, but if it is, for the love of god, can you please teach the kids to make popcorn properly? The fire alarm goes off every now and then.

Oh, and have taught the kids kubb yet? I think it's essential that they learn how to argue about the rules after you have started playing properly, just like Swedes!

There's one in Weymouth, MA if you feel like trying it out. Never been though, my DD stop was earlier on my drive to the T.