Things Au Pair agencies don't always tell you, but we will

If you are thinking about becoming an Au Pair, or hosting one, you have probably seen the polished version of the program. The travel, the cultural exchange, the becoming part of a family.

All of that is typically true. But, there are also some realities that don't always get talked about upfront. So here's some honest realities about the Au Pair program.

1. Not every match is perfect (and that's normal)

Even with interviews, profiles, and preferences sometimes it just doesn't click. Living together is very different from chatting online and over the phone. Sometimes rematches happen and it's not always a failure, it's sometimes part of the process.

Expert tip: Make personality and lifestyle fit a high priority during interviews. Focusing on these things can help avoid rematching.

2. It can get lonely at first

Au Pairs are moving to a new country, far away from their support system. The first few weeks can feel isolating, even in a great family. Building the bond and social circle takes effort.

Expert Tip: Keep an open mind and be open to learning. Keep communication open and meet up weekly to talk about how things are going.

3. Cultural exchange still includes real work

The Au Pair program is a childcare program with cultural exchange. Some days are amazing and some are exhausting. Tantrums, schedules, early morning, it's not a vacation even if you are traveling too.

Expert Tip: If you do your child care work the cultural exchange, travel, and everything else that goes with being an Au Pair will follow suit.

4. Communication makes or breaks the experience

Most issues we see (on both sides) come down to unclear expectations like:

• working hours
• discipline styles
• house rules
• boundaries

If you don't talk about it early, it will come up later.

Expert tip: Ask all questions about these things in interviews. Au Pairs should express their goals for the program during interviews as well. Ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable.

5. Host Families are learning too

Just like Au Pairs are adjusting, many Host Families are first timers too. They may not get everything right immediately. The best situations happen when both sides are open and flexible.

Expert tip: If something is wrong or uncomfortable, talk about it. Usually most things are a misunderstanding.

6. Your experience depends heavily on YOU

The people who have the best Au Pair program experiences tend to:

• put themselves out there
• communicate openly
• stay flexible
• build a life outside the Host Family

The Au Pair program can be one of the most rewarding experiences for Au Pairs and Host Families. It takes dedication, understanding, and open communication to make it great!