Getting matched with the right host family is one of the most essential parts of an au pair’s experience. However, the process can be overwhelming for new au pairs. Start your application by making a list of your ‘non-negotiables.’ You must have these things from a family to be a good match for you. Then use that list when searching through the thousands of families on matching sites. Also, being very honest during your interviews is a good idea. If you aren’t comfortable with specific duties or you would struggle with a particular age of children, then be sure to mention this in your interview. It will save you a lot of stress in the long run if you are upfront about your expectations and needs from a family.
Be Prepared
A successful au pair has to be flexible. It might take time for them to settle in if you are matched with a family. It’s also important to be prepared for your interview with the host family. Review their application and write down questions you’d like to ask them. Practice your answers with a friend or family member beforehand, and remember that it’s an interview, so dress appropriately. You should have first aid and CPR training in case of an emergency while working with the children. Signing up for an au pair online application is a good idea. Finally, prepare for your arrival by preparing a private room at the host family’s home, writing up a daily work schedule and household rules, preparing meals, and getting familiar with their neighborhood and public transportation. Au pairs must also ensure their host family understands they are entitled to some personal or free time, such as one-off day a week and additional free time during certain holidays.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
It’s OK to ask questions. It’s essential to do so. Not asking a question can cost you in the long run. For example, if you don’t ask a question about an aspect of your host family’s lifestyle, such as their parenting philosophies or house rules, you might misjudge what it is like to live with them. That could impact your happiness and success as an au pair. During the interview, asking families about their expectations and lifestyle is OK. You can also ask them about their children, hobbies, and anything else you’re curious about. However, be careful about asking questions that are too personal or sensitive or those that would reveal information you’d rather keep private. In the case of an au pair, that might include talking about health conditions, financial situations, or intimate details of relationships. These questions should be reserved for close friends and family.
Be Honest
As we all know, honesty is a virtue. It’s not just about telling the truth; it’s also about respecting and treating others with dignity. Honesty is a part of the fabric of human relationships and is an ideal component of effective communication. When interviewing au pairs, it’s essential to ask questions that will allow you to see how they will react under stress. One way to do this is by offering hypothetical situations and asking how they would respond. This will help you see how they will behave under pressure and whether they have the problem-solving skills needed for the job. In exchange for room and board and a weekly stipend, au pairs provide up to 45 hours of childcare per week and share their language, culture, and customs with host families in America. They are treated as a family member and not just a household employee. This creates a win-win for everyone involved in the program. That’s why treating your au pair like a family member is essential, encouraging them to respect your boundaries and their own.
Be Flexible
As an au pair, you’ll be entrusted with the care of children and household chores, so your duties can vary wildly from country to country. For example, some families may only need you to help with the kids in the morning and afternoon, while others want you around the clock. Finding a family who will be flexible with you regarding child-rearing philosophies, household rules, and conflict management is essential. Aim to develop a range of skills so that you’re prepared for unforeseen requirements from your host family. For example, you might need to run errands for the family, such as picking up dry cleaning or buying groceries. It’s helpful to learn to be more perceptive to other people’s feelings, and this is a great way to be more flexible. The more flexible you are, the better your au pair experience will be. Remember to stay calm and be prepared for anything – you can always make it work! Attend a free online or in-person info Meeting to get more advice from a former au pair.
