How to Become an Au Pair

Being an au pair is an exciting opportunity to experience a new country and culture while living abroad with a host family. Many au pair positions include the possibility of attending university as well as traveling after the au pair contract is fulfilled. Host families invite the opportunity to welcome an au pair to broaden their children's experience as well.

Instructions

1. Offer impeccable references. Be in good health, be between the ages of 18 and 26 and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Hold a valid driver's license.

2. Have childcare experience, particularly with toddlers and preschool-age children, and an ability to manage and creatively engage them. Be proficient in the spoken language of the host family.

3. Complete a 2-year course in child care to qualify for "elite au pair" status with a higher salary and greater benefits. Gain "elite" status with 2 years experience as a nanny or nursery school teacher.

4. Expect to do light housework like dusting and vacuuming. Plan to prepare meals, take the children to play dates and appointments and generally manage the details of their days.

5. Express a grasp of the demands of the job when interviewing. Show a willingness to be flexible and adaptable to a new culture and surroundings.

6. Apply to an au pair agency that arranges placements in the desired host countries. Check the background and track record of the agency. Investigate how host families are screened.

7. Work only with members of the International Au Pair Association (IAPA) (see Resources). Ask to speak to returning au pairs.

Resources

• International Au Pair Association website