How to Become an Au Pair
Starting with the basics
Becoming an au pair is an exciting opportunity to live abroad, immerse yourself in a new culture, and gain valuable experience working with children. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become an au pair:
1. Understand the Role
Responsibilities: As an au pair, you'll typically help with childcare, which can include tasks like preparing meals for children, helping with homework, playing with them, and light housework related to the children. ( In addition to the responsibilities mentioned above, I was also tasked with walking the children to and from school and occasionally accompanying them to soccer practice.)
Living Arrangements: You'll live with the host family and usually have your own room. Meals are typically provided. ( I had my own room on the top floor of the house, which included a private bathroom and a small kitchen. However, I rarely used the kitchen since I mostly ate with my host family.)
Compensation: Au pairs receive a weekly or monthly stipend, which varies by country, and may also get other benefits like language classes or travel costs. (I was given a monthly stipend of 260 Euros, my bus ticket for the year was paid, and a couple language courses were also paid for by my guest family.)
2. Check Eligibility
Age: Most countries require au pairs to be between 18-30 years old, though this can vary.
Language Skills: You may need to have basic language skills in the country’s official language, although this varies by location. (For Germany a level A1.1 was required. Although I knew deep down that my German was far from A1.1 level and I only knew basic phrases like "hello" and "goodbye," I still managed to obtain my visa to become an au pair. If my au pair family is reading this, sorry for the false advertisement lol)
Experience: Some families prefer candidates with prior childcare experience. ( I had a history of babysitting prior to being an au pair and that really helped me find a family because Parents feel reassured knowing that you already have some experience caring for children.) Health: You'll need to be in good health, and some countries require a medical check.
3. Choose a Destination
Research countries where you want to work. Popular destinations include the USA, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Australia. ( If i’m being honest, I had no idea what country I wanted to do this whole au pair thing in. I selected multiple countries in Europe and looked for a family that caught my eye the most. That’s how I ended up choosing my destination)
Consider the visa requirements, cultural differences, language, and the availability of au pair programs.
4. Find an Au Pair Agency or Platform
Agencies: Many aspiring au pairs use agencies to help find a host family and assist with visa and other logistics.
Online Platforms: Websites like AuPairWorld, GreatAuPair, or AuPair.com allow you to create a profile and connect directly with families. ( I used AupairWorld. I created a profile in the evening and the next morning I already had families messaging me.)
5. Create a Profile
Highlight your experience with children, language skills, hobbies, and why you want to become an au pair.
Upload photos and a video introduction if possible.
Be honest about your expectations and what you’re looking for in a host family.
6. Search for Host Families
Use your chosen agency or platform to search for families.
Review family profiles carefully, and look for a family that matches your personality, interests, and expectations.
7. Interview with Families
Conduct video calls with potential host families to discuss your role, the family's expectations, and living arrangements.
Ask questions about the children’s routines, your schedule, and any cultural aspects you should be aware of. ( Don’t be shy…Questions, Questions, Questions, make sure to ask a ton of them because you want to make sure you’ll be happy with this family. After all, you’ll be spending the next 6 months - 1 year with them.)
Ensure you feel comfortable with the family’s lifestyle and parenting style.
8. Finalize the Agreement
Once you've found a match, sign an au pair agreement outlining your duties, working hours, stipend, and any additional benefits. ( A contract was provided by AupairWorld and was signed by the both my guest parents and myself. On this contract were things such as my pay, hours i’ll be working in a week, my au pair duties, ect..)
Make sure the agreement complies with the regulations of the host country.
9. Apply for a Visa
The visa process varies depending on the country. Some countries have specific au pair visas, while others may use a work or cultural exchange visa.
Your agency or the host family can often assist with this process.
10. Prepare for Departure
Book your flights and plan your travel to the host country.
Pack appropriately for your stay, considering the climate and duration of your stay.
Research the culture, customs, and basic language phrases of your host country.
11. Orientation and Adjustment
Some agencies offer orientation programs upon arrival to help you adjust to your new environment.
Be open-minded, patient, and proactive in adapting to your new home and role.
12. Maintain Open Communication
Regularly communicate with your host family to ensure a positive relationship.
Address any issues or concerns early to avoid misunderstandings.
13. Enjoy the Experience
Make the most of your time as an au pair by exploring the country, making new friends, and learning as much as you can from the experience.
Becoming an au pair is a significant commitment, it takes a lot of courage to move to a foreign country on your own. I moved to Germany for my au pair year when I was just 19. I definitely experienced culture shock and felt homesick, often crying because I missed my family and because everything felt so different. However, in the long run, it was an incredible experience. It opened my eyes to a new side of the world, helped me mature, introduced me to a different culture, and allowed me to make new friends, among many other things. Like they say, “You only live once”, and indeed we do. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.