Bringing an au pair into your home is an exciting decision that can be life-changing for both your family and the au pair. Whether you’ve hosted au pairs before or this is your first time, preparing your home properly is key to creating a positive and harmonious experience for everyone. But where do you start?
Think About Space
One of the most important aspects of hosting an au pair via an agency like goaupair.com is making sure they have their own private space. This isn’t just about having a bed and a place to keep their things – it’s about giving them a space they can call their own, where they can relax and recharge.
Are you able to provide a private bedroom for your au pair? A shared bathroom might be acceptable, but ideally, your au pair should have their own bedroom with a door that locks for privacy. Think about whether the room is cozy and comfortable. Small touches like good lighting, fresh bedding, and a few personal touches (like a framed picture or plant) can make a huge difference.
Would you feel comfortable living in the space you’re providing? This is a good rule of thumb to ensure it’s up to standard for your au pair.
Set Expectations Clearly
Before your au pair even arrives, it’s important to have a conversation about expectations. What will their daily duties be? What hours will they work, and how much free time will they have? The clearer you are about these things up front, the smoother things will go when they get there.
Some things to consider discussing:
- Childcare responsibilities – What specific tasks will they handle? Think about school runs, playtime, mealtimes, and bedtime routines.
- Household chores – Will they be expected to help with light cleaning or laundry? Make sure they’re aware of what’s expected.
- Free time – Let your au pair know when they’re free to do their own thing. Most au pairs are entitled to a certain number of hours off each day, as well as time on weekends.
- Curfews and rules – Will there be any curfews? Are there any house rules they need to know about? Be open and honest about the structure of your household.
It’s also a great idea to write down these expectations and give your au pair a copy so there’s no confusion later on.
Communication is Key
Like any relationship, good communication with your au pair is essential. From day one, encourage open and honest discussions. Make sure your au pair feels comfortable asking questions, offering suggestions, or even sharing concerns.
Will there be a language barrier? If your au pair speaks a different native language than your family, consider how you’ll navigate this. Language apps or translation tools can help, but patience and understanding are key. You may also find it helpful to learn a few basic words in their language – this can show you’re making an effort and help break the ice.
Familiarize Them With the Household
Your home may feel like second nature to you, but to an au pair coming from a different country (or even a different part of the country), everything will feel new. Take some time to familiarize them with how your household runs.
- Kitchen appliances – Show them how to use basic things like the oven, dishwasher, microwave, and coffee maker.
- Security systems – Do you have a home security system or alarm? Make sure they understand how it works and what to do if it goes off.
- Laundry – Every household has its quirks with laundry, whether it’s specific cycles, detergents, or sorting methods. Walk your au pair through your routine.
- Emergency contacts – Provide a list of important phone numbers, including yours, your partner’s, and anyone else who might be able to help in an emergency. Don’t forget to include your doctor’s office and the nearest hospital.
The more information you provide upfront, the less confusion there will be later.
Introduce Them to the Neighborhood
Once they’ve settled in, spend some time showing your au pair around the local area. They’ll likely be responsible for running errands or taking your children to activities, so they’ll need to get to know the neighborhood quickly.
Are there nearby parks, grocery stores, or public transport options? Point these out and offer some guidance on how to get around. You might even want to drive them around the area in the first few days, showing them key spots like the school, library, or any places your family visits regularly.
Encourage Independence
While your au pair will become an important part of your family, it’s also important to encourage them to have their own life outside of your home. They’ll likely want to make friends, explore the area, and take part in social activities. Supporting their independence will not only give them a richer experience but will also help keep things balanced in your home.
Can you help them connect with other au pairs or young people in the area? Consider joining local au pair groups or suggesting places where they might meet new friends.
Address Cultural Differences
Hosting an au pair from another country can bring exciting opportunities for cultural exchange – but it can also bring challenges. There may be differences in customs, beliefs, or even small habits that you don’t immediately think about. Being aware of these potential differences and discussing them openly can prevent misunderstandings.
Are there any specific traditions or customs in your home that might be unfamiliar to your au pair? On the flip side, ask them if there are any customs from their culture that they’d like to observe while they’re staying with you. This exchange can be a wonderful way for both you and your children to learn about another culture.
Final Thoughts
Hosting an au pair can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved – but it requires planning, communication, and flexibility. By preparing your home thoughtfully and taking the time to establish clear expectations, you’ll set the stage for a positive relationship with your au pair. After all, a happy, well-prepared home is the foundation for a successful hosting experience.
