How to Be an Au Pair in Europe

Being an au pair or nanny in Europe is an excellent way to spend gap years, learn a new language, gain valuable experience and work closely with children. Families around the world are constantly seeking qualified au pairs. Here are a few tips and instructions on proper preparation, landing an au pair job and carrying out your experience abroad.

Instructions

1. Work as a babysitter, in a daycare center or anywhere you can be directly involved with children. Take CPR, first aid or any health education course available in your area. Many high schools offer valuable classes for au pairs. Check your school's listings for Child Development, Home Economics, Nutrition, or Foreign Language courses. Do some volunteer work with children. The more you do to prepare, the better opportunities will be available to you.

2. Create a resume and cover letter highlighting your experience with children and your education. Come up with a few suggestions for play activities and what you might do with kids of different ages for an afternoon.

3. Line up a few solid references. Ask teachers or employers if they're willing to be a reference for you and always notify them beforehand when you're giving out their contact information. Give them a copy of your resume too for them to look at when talking to prospective families.

4. When you have everything ready, apply for au pair jobs. There are many local au pair/nanny agencies throughout the world and if you're looking to go to a particular place, consult that country's government site for links. Another common way to find a position is on GreatAuPair.com. This is, by far, the largest resource for au pairs and families from around the world. Create a profile and you can search and apply for positions right on the website according to your preferences and experience.

5. Once you've made contact with families you'll probably be doing telephone interviews. Be sure to have your resume in front of you as well as any information you know about the family. You'll also want to check their references. Ask if they've had an au pair before and if you can contact that person. It is difficult to know how you'll react to a new town, family and job all at once so find out as much as possible before going.

6. Secure any passport or visa requirements, health insurance and plane tickets.