Choosing the right au pair agency is a big decision. After all, this isn’t just about finding someone to help with childcare—it’s about inviting a new person into your home and creating a supportive, enriching environment for your family and the au pair. Whether you’re new to the idea of hosting an au pair or you’ve done it before, asking the right questions upfront can make the process much smoother and set the stage for a successful match. So, what should you be asking an au pair agency before making your choice?
1. What support does the agency provide?
Not all au pair agencies are created equal when it comes to offering support, and this is something you’ll want to clarify right away. Start by asking about the specific services they provide beyond simply matching families and au pairs. Will they guide you through the legal requirements, such as visa processing and contracts? Do they offer mediation or assistance if issues arise once the au pair is living with you?
Some agencies also provide orientation programs to help au pairs adjust to life in a new country and family. These small details can make a huge difference in ensuring that both your family and the au pair feel supported throughout the experience. An agency like Go Au Pair goes above and beyond to ensure a successful placement for everyone involved.
2. How does the matching process work?
The matching process is the heart of finding the right au pair, and every agency approaches it a little differently. Ask about how they screen their candidates and what steps are involved in matching you with someone who fits your family’s needs and values.
- Are you provided with multiple profiles to review, or does the agency pre-select candidates they think suit your family?
- Do they facilitate interviews with potential au pairs? If so, do they offer tips or resources to help you ask the right questions during those conversations?
- Is there a trial period or a way to switch au pairs if things don’t work out as planned?
The more transparent the agency is about their process, the better you’ll feel about trusting them with this important task.
3. What are the costs, and what do they cover?
No one likes surprises when it comes to finances, so it’s crucial to get a clear understanding of the fees involved. Agencies can vary widely in cost, and it’s important to know exactly what you’re paying for. Ask for a breakdown of all expenses, including upfront fees, ongoing costs, and any additional charges that might pop up.
Key things to clarify:
- Are the au pair’s travel expenses included in the fees, or are those extra?
- What about insurance for the au pair—does the agency handle this, or will you need to arrange it separately?
- Are there any refund policies if things don’t go as expected?
Understanding the financial side of things from the beginning will save you from any unwelcome surprises later on.
4. What experience and qualifications do the au pairs have?
Not every family’s needs are the same, and the same goes for au pairs. Some might be more experienced with younger children, while others may be better suited for teens or children with special needs. Make sure to ask the agency about the experience level and qualifications of their au pairs. Do they have a minimum requirement for childcare experience? What kind of background checks are performed?
Also, it’s worth finding out if au pairs are required to have a certain level of language proficiency or specific skills, like driving or first aid. Knowing this in advance can help you decide if an agency’s candidates are likely to meet your expectations.
5. What happens if something goes wrong?
No one wants to think about worst-case scenarios, but it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. Ask the agency what kind of support they offer if issues arise during the placement. This could be anything from personality clashes to more serious concerns.
Find out if they provide a local representative you can reach out to for help or if there’s a structured process for resolving disputes. Also, ask about replacement policies. If the placement isn’t working out, will the agency help you find a new au pair? If so, are there any extra fees for this service?
Agencies that are upfront about their problem-solving approach and have solid systems in place to handle these situations will give you peace of mind as you move forward.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
Finding the right au pair agency is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about finding a partner who will help you navigate the process with confidence. By asking these five key questions, you’ll be in a much stronger position to choose an agency that aligns with your needs and values.
Hosting an au pair can be an incredibly rewarding experience for your family and the au pair alike. Taking the time to ask the right questions now will help set the stage for a positive, enriching partnership. Ready to start the journey? Let these questions guide you to the right agency and the perfect match for your family.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Whether she is researching the latest trends in home decor, life-changing destination getaways, or the best way to maintain your finances, Dewey takes pride in leaving no stone unturned. She is passionate about distilling and delivering high-quality information that you can use to upgrade your life.
