Choosing an au pair agency can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the process. The idea of bringing someone into your home to help care for your children is exciting, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. You want to make sure that the agency you select provides the right support, screening, and structure for both you and your au pair.
So, how do you find the right agency? And what should you be asking beyond the usual “How much does it cost?” or “What’s the hiring process?” These questions are important, but there are others that often get overlooked—and they can make a big difference in your experience.
Here’s what you might not have thought to ask an au pair agency, but definitely should.
1. What kind of support does the agency provide after the au pair arrives?
It’s easy to focus on the matching process, but what happens once your au pair arrives? Will the agency leave you to figure things out on your own, or are they available to provide ongoing support?
Some agencies offer a wealth of resources, from local coordinators who can help with issues or concerns to support groups for both families and au pairs. This kind of backup can be invaluable, especially in those first few months when both your family and your au pair are adjusting to a new dynamic.
Ask about:
- Regular check-ins
- Conflict resolution assistance
- Emergency contacts in case something goes wrong
- Access to local au pair communities for social support
A good agency won’t just help you find the right person—they’ll stay with you throughout the entire experience.
2. How are the au pairs screened and vetted?
Every agency claims to have a robust vetting process, but what does that actually mean? It’s essential to ask for specifics.
Are background checks done in both the au pair’s home country and the US? How in-depth are their interviews? Do they assess the au pair’s childcare experience in any meaningful way, or is it just about checking off boxes? And what about personality and values—are those considered in the screening process?
Digging deeper into these questions ensures you know exactly what you’re getting in terms of safety and reliability. You want an au pair who is not only experienced but also aligns with your family’s values and expectations. This is one of the reasons why https://www.goaupair.com/ is so highly regarded, as their vetting process is exceptional.
3. What kind of training do au pairs receive before arriving?
Most au pair agencies provide some level of training, but the scope and quality can vary significantly. It’s worth asking whether the training focuses solely on basic childcare, or if it also includes cultural differences, communication skills, and safety protocols.
An au pair might be fantastic with children, but living with a new family in a foreign country comes with its own challenges. Cultural adaptation training can make a big difference in how smoothly the transition goes for everyone involved.
Some agencies even offer training sessions on first aid, nutrition, and educational play, which can add an extra layer of reassurance that your children will be well taken care of.
4. What happens if things don’t work out with the au pair?
Sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, things don’t go according to plan. Maybe the match just isn’t right, or perhaps your au pair faces personal challenges that affect their ability to stay.
Before committing to an agency, ask about their policies for rematching or handling disputes. Will you have support in finding a new au pair if things fall apart? Is there a limit on how many times you can request a rematch? And, importantly, will you receive a refund if you choose to withdraw from the program altogether?
Knowing these details ahead of time can save a lot of stress down the line if something unexpected comes up.
5. What are the agency’s expectations of host families?
Yes, you’re hiring someone to help out, but being a host family comes with responsibilities, too. Ask the agency about their expectations for host families, and make sure you’re comfortable with them.
Some agencies might require you to follow certain rules when it comes to room and board, meal arrangements, or even curfews for your au pair. Others might have guidelines for how many hours the au pair is expected to work, as well as how much downtime they should have each week.
Understanding these expectations ensures that both you and your au pair are on the same page from the start, which can prevent misunderstandings and frustration later.
6. How does the agency handle visa and legal requirements?
Bringing an au pair into the US involves a lot of paperwork. Your agency should be well-versed in the legalities of visa applications and work permits. Make sure they handle all aspects of this process so you don’t end up scrambling to deal with it on your own.
Ask:
- How involved will they be in the visa application process?
- What happens if there are delays or complications with the visa?
- Does the agency offer any legal guidance in case issues arise?
This will give you peace of mind, knowing that the legal side of things is being properly managed.
7. What kind of cultural exchange opportunities does the agency promote?
An au pair isn’t just a nanny—they’re here to experience life in the US and bring their own culture into your home. A good agency will promote cultural exchange activities that benefit both the au pair and your family.
Ask whether the agency provides guidance or resources for integrating cultural learning into your daily routine. Do they host any events, activities, or meetups that encourage au pairs to share their culture? How do they ensure that the exchange goes both ways, enriching the experience for everyone?
Making the Right Choice
Selecting an au pair agency is about more than finding someone to help with childcare. It’s about finding a partner that will support you and your au pair throughout the entire journey. By asking these often-overlooked questions, you can ensure you’re choosing an agency that not only meets your needs but also enhances your overall experience.
Don’t settle for the bare minimum—dig deeper to ensure you’re getting the support, security, and cultural exchange opportunities that will make the au pair program a success for your family.
