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Beginner's Guide

Become an Au Pair

Basics

Ever heard of being an au pair? It's a cultural exchange program where you live with a host family in another country, help care for their children, and become part of their daily life, while also getting to explore a new culture, learn a language, and grow as a person. You get a stipend, room and board, and the chance to see the world from a completely different perspective. If this sounds like the kind of meaningful adventure you're looking for, we're here to walk you through everything. From figuring out if it's right for you, to getting ready for the big move, to actually making it happen. Let's break it all down together.

DISCOVER

Let's start with the basics: what's it actually like being an au pair? We'll show you the day-to-day stuff, the amazing moments, and yeah, the challenges too. It's all about helping you see if this adventure feels right for you.

PREPARE

Time to get ready! We'll help you brush up on your childcare skills, learn some cultural tips, and maybe practice that language a bit more. Don't worry, you don't need to be perfect; just be prepared enough to feel confident.

BEGIN

This is where the magic happens! We'll help you find your perfect host family match and make sure you've got all the support you need to absolutely crush this experience.

First Steps

Decide

Figure out where you want to go and what you're hoping to get out of the experience.

Learn

Start picking up the basics of your destination's language. Even a little bit helps.

Partner

Work with AuPair Petals for help with paperwork and matching with the right families.

Budget

Plan for travel insurance, visa fees, language courses, and getting there.

New Begginings

What to Expect

Those first few weeks in a new country can feel overwhelming, but that's totally normal! You'll be adjusting to a new family dynamic, figuring out local customs, and maybe even navigating a different language. Give yourself time to settle in; it usually takes about a month to start feeling at home. Your host family will be your biggest support system, so don't be shy about asking questions or sharing how you're feeling.

Remember, you're not just there to work; you're part of the family now. Join in on family activities, explore your new neighborhood, and embrace the little cultural differences that make this experience so special. Some days will be amazing, others might be challenging, but that's all part of the adventure that's going to change you in the best ways possible.

Next Up

Destinations you can expect

Top Destinations

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01//06

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Germany

For Host Families

Thinking about hosting an au pair? You're about to give someone an incredible opportunity while getting amazing help for your family.

From first call to arrival, we help you move with clarity and confidence. Real support, real matches, and a smoother experience for your family.

Being a host family means opening your home to a young person from another country who's excited to care for your children and experience life in your community. It's not just about having an extra pair of hands - you're creating a cultural bridge that enriches everyone involved.

We're here to make the whole process feel natural and stress-free. From helping you figure out what kind of au pair would be the perfect fit for your family's unique needs, to walking you through all the logistics, to being there when you need support along the way. Ready to explore how hosting could work for your family?