2Au pairs get the rare opportunity to experience a foreign culture by living in it as a member of a family. They are responsible for playing with the children, helping them with homework and often teaching them English. In exchange, the au pair is provided room and board, a small stipend, and the cultural opportunity of a lifetime. If you’re a young woman who wants to see the world, seize this opportunity.
- Post your profile on the Internet. Many Websites offer au pair/family matching services. Include your experience working with children, what country and city you would like to be in, and a friendly, responsible-looking photo of yourself. Don’t provide too many personal details — your information will be available to Website subscribers.Conduct a search on the Website. Look for families that suit your wants and abilities. If you prefer school-aged children or babies, you can refine your search. Most Websites allow you to search for free; you usually have to pay to access contact information.Ask your potential host family for photos of themselves and where they live. Arrange to speak to them on the phone. They should be able to do these things without hesitation or excuses. If they can’t, move on to the next family.Know the situation that you are getting into. Is the family stable? Are the parents happily married? How many children are there, and what are their ages? Do they have any special needs?Clarify the terms of your stay. Will you be expected to cook for the children and do chores? How much will you be paid? When will you have time off?Be prepared to commit to six months or a year with your host family. Parents often choose to have au pairs because they want to expose their children to someone from another culture. The long stay helps build a relationship between you and the family. Depending on the length of your stay, you may be given time off to travel or even be invited on vacation with the family.
