Who can be an au pair | Au Pair America

Eligibility

Eligibility requirements

This is what you need to qualify to be an au pair:

Age: 18-26 years old

Education: high school or secondary education qualification

Driving licence: a valid driving licence, and a clean driving record

Childcare experience: at least 200 hours of recent, non-family childcare experience*

English proficiency: a good standard of spoken English (B1-B2 level or higher).

Health & background screening: proof of good health, and good childcare references.

Criminal background screening: a clear criminal record.

Marital & dependent status: single, with no spouse or dependents.

Program commitment: available to live with a host family in the United States for 12 months.

*min 400 hours for male applicants – limited places are available

Experience

Experience that counts

You need childcare experience, including experience looking after children who are not members of your family. There are a number of ways you can meet this requirement and references must be provided by people who are not members of your family. Here are some examples:

Babysitting: looking after children in the evenings or during weekends for neighbours.

Nursery work: working at a nursery to provide daily care, playtime and learning in an early years environment.

Volunteering with children: assisting in children’s hospitals, church groups or charities.

Holiday camps or after-school clubs: working with groups of children in activity-based programmes, sports sessions or creative workshops.

What makes a good au pair

What makes a good au pair?

A good au pair is calm, responsible and confident in looking after children. You must be comfortable managing everyday tasks like preparing meals, school runs, playtime and bedtimes. Host families trust you to keep their children safe, supported and engaged.

The best au pairs are organised, kind and genuinely enjoy spending time with children. They also stay flexible and open to new experiences, and make the most of their time in a new environment.