Host Families - The Low Down

Probably the most important step in the Au Pair in the USA application process is matching with the right host family. After all, you will be spending 12 months of your life with them and their children! It is so important that you are matched with the right family so you have a successful and enjoyable year in the US.

Who are the host families?

Host families come from all across the USA. Each family applies for an au pair online and then are interviewed by a Local Coordinator in their home. During the interview the Local Coordinator will assess the family’s suitability for the programme and check to see if the home is suitable for an au pair. The host children will be present so the Local Coordinator can see the full picture of each host family. Every family member is referenced and police record checked, so you can be assured that the application process for host families is thorough and comprehensive.

How do I find a host family?

During your application process, you will put forward the types of families you would feel most comfortable working with. The following considerations might form part of that selection process:

• The age range of the children you will care for
• The dynamic of the family (single mum, 2 parents, 1 or both parents working from home, same sex families)
• Religion and Race
• The number of children
• Location (we prefer au pairs to be open when it comes to location, as it is more important that you find the right family!)

Host families will be able to view the profiles of potential au pairs and can select potential matches. All families have different criteria when looking for the au pair that would best fit in with their family. For example, one could be looking for someone who is very sporty, in order to keep up with their active family and another may prefer an au pair who loves arts & crafts that they can get the children involved in.

What happens next?

You will be notified each time you have been selected by a potential host family. Once you have been selected you will have a Skype ‘interview’ so you can get to know each other better, ask any questions you may have and see if you want to become their au pair. You don’t have to accept the first family you speak to! A match is only made once both sides are comfortable and completely happy. Once you’ve found a family you like, arrangements will be made for your travel to the USA. Bring on your au pair adventure!

Have any more questions about host families and the Au Pair in the USA programme? Get in touch and we’ll talk you through the process!