Life as an au pair
A structured program for a great year in America
Being an au pair in America is your chance to learn, work, and live as part of an American family.
Our program is designed to give you the support, structure, and flexibility you need to enjoy your year and make the most of every opportunity.
Each year, over 4,000 au pairs from more than 60 countries join families across the United States with Au Pair in America. Could you be one of them?
How the program works
As an au pair, your role is to care for the children in your host family. This might include:
Morning and bedtime routines
Fun and learning activities
Meals and snacks
Transport and tidying
Weekly spending money: You'll receive money each week to spend as you choose during your stay.
Your own private bedroom: Enjoy a comfortable and private space of your own in the host family's home.
Three meals per day: All your main meals are provided daily by the host family.
Two weeks of paid vacation during your year: Take time off to travel or relax, with two weeks of paid holiday included in your year.
One full weekend off each month: Recharge or explore with one complete weekend off every month.
Annual study allowance up to $500: Use this allowance to take approved classes or courses during your program year.
Support from community counsellors
Our au pairs are fully supported
We understand that moving to a new country can feel like a big step. That’s why we make sure you’re supported all the way.
Every area where we place au pairs has a local group of participants, called a “cluster”, and each cluster has a local Community Counsellor. Your counsellor is there to:
Support you and your host family during your stay
Help you settle into your new home and your new community
Be someone you can talk to if you have any questions
Introduce you to other au pairs living nearby
Organise social events and meetups
This means you’ll have a local network of au pairs and someone you can always contact for help and advice.
Eligibility requirements
This is what you need to qualify to be an au pair:
Age: Between 18-26 years old
Childcare experience: Have at least 200 hours of recent, non-family childcare experience*
Education: Completed high school or secondary education qualification.
Driving licence: Have a valid driving licence, and have a clean driving record.
English proficiency: Comfortable speaking English to a good standard (B1-B2 level or higher).
Health & background screening: Proof of good health, and good childcare references.
Criminal background screening: Have a clear criminal record.
Marital & dependent status: Must be single, with no spouse or dependents.
Program commitment: Willing and able to live with a host family in the United States for 12 months.
Study and travel
In your free time you can explore, relax, and enjoy life in America. Whether you want to visit museums, go hiking, shop at the mall, or hang out with new friends — this is your chance to live like a local.
You’ll also get the opportunity to travel and see more of the USA. Many of our au pairs use their paid vacation time, weekends off, and the travel month at the end of the program to visit famous places like New York City, the Grand Canyon, Disneyland, Miami Beach, and national parks across the country.
As part of the program, you’ll also study while you’re in the USA. Your host family will contribute up to $500 toward your education. Studying is a great way to meet people, learn new things, and get the most from your experience abroad.
Real stories
Life as an au pair, by au pairs
Be inspired by the stories of au pairs from around the world.
Events
Social Media
Follow us for real-life stories into au pair life and connect with our community
