JET Applicants with Families

[AutumnRocks]

I hope this isn't a redundant topic, but I have a question about the program and families.

My husband and I have been talking about applying for the JET for some time. We would both like to apply. We also just found out we're expecting, and will be due in January 2013.

My questions are:

What is the likelihood that my husband and I could/would be placed in the same place if we were both accepted;

Is there a minimum age that the child would have to be for one or both of us to be accepted;

If only one of us is accepted, is the salary enough to support a family of three (I guess that depends on where you're placed?);

And any other insights you may have to offer, be it from your own personal experience, or someone you know.

I appreciate any feedback!

[Chrisd928]

I would check the thread about blogs, there was something there about JET and families in Japan (I think). Also, there are some prior threads I remember reading that talked more specifically about this, I can't really remember the details because I don't have kids yet, but I know it's within the first page or two of threads.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful ^^; But at least it's a start for looking.

I don't believe that a child disqualifies you or that there is a minimum age requirement for your child you are bringing. If I remember correctly someone mentioned daycare-type services starting at 6 months old. If you are married, you have a better chance of being placed near each other, but I also don't think it is a guarantee. If the salary is not enough, you or your spouse could try to find other employment, as an ALT after you get there or something similar to that.

[violet]

Children do not disqualify you. There is no minimum age a child needs to be to apply, although finding daycare for kids under preschool age can be a bit tricky. Daycare from 2 months and up exists (location dependant), but is often in high demand. Daycare "classes" open in April, and in some locations fill up awfully fast. You would need to make sure there was a daycare with openings for your child's age group wherever you get placed to make it possible for you both to work.

You are not guranteed to be placed near your husband, but they do try their best. Most of the married couples I know were placed at least within commuting distance of each other. Of course, it's ideal if they place you in the same city, but that doesn't always happen.

The salary one JET makes should be enough to support a family, as long as you use your money wisely. I've know several families of 3 or 4 that have managed just fine, but they live their lives more frugally than other JETs and don't travel much.

It is not always easy for a JET spouse to find employment, depending on location. Don't count on a full-time job for that partner, if only one of you gets in. Part-time English teaching or tutoring jobs can usually be found, but the pay isn't that great.

This is based both on personal experience and friends' experiences. Your experience could differ.

[altplustwo]

If you're interested in JET, go ahead and apply. It is a competitive program, but it can't hurt to apply. JET does not discriminate based on families. I came with my husband and 20 month old daughter. I am the only JET. Our daughter attends hoikuen (Japanese daycare) and my husband has found other work. Public daycares take children from 6 months and up. But private daycares will take small babies. It was difficult at first to get our daughter into hoikuen because we don't speak Japanese. My supervisor helped a lot! She started in September. If you speak Japanese it will be much easier to communicate to the staff at the daycare.

If you are married you should be placed together. Make sure you request this on your application form. If you are both accepted your supervisor should help you find a suitable childcare option for your little one. Make sure you let them know as soon as possible (but it will also be on your application). Be prepared to answer questions in your JET interview about your family (for example: What if only one of you gets into JET? What will your child do? etc...).

JET pays a little bit less than it used to for new JETs starting this year and subsequent years. With the new system I believe you will receive a bonus for recontracting. So, the first year might be tight but it should get easier if you stay longer. You will need to save more money for start up costs, though. Babies need a lot of things (crib, etc...).

Best of luck! and Congratulations on the baby!

[Kendra]

Hey there - you should check out the facebook group http://www.facebook.com/groups/jetcouplesandfamilies/ people are very helpful there. i am also applying for 2013 and bringing my 4 year old son with me. I think it will be a great experience for both of us Best of luck!

[Industrious_Ant]

First, one income is pretty doable for 2 people. With child, I would say 1.5 income would be helpful.
You'll get a subsidy from the government as well that should help a bit.
There is a good chance you will be placed together and a good chance that as long as you pass the application, it won't matter if you have a child.

Here is a fave blog of mine of JET family:
http://dustinandlaura.blogspot.jp/

I have a blog as well, but a few months outdated...we had our baby here in Japan if you are interested in the whole process:
http://industriousants.wordpress.com/
Just check out the Made In Japan headings.

Cheers and good luck!
Martine