5 Important Topics to Discuss with Your Au Pair

This post is also available in: Deutsch (German)

When a Host Family and an Au Pair decide to live and work together, they usually talk about big things like personality, experience, work hours, tasks, and visas. After sorting out these basics, smaller details like travel plans and room setup come next. But in all the excitement, some important topics can be forgotten.

What seems obvious to a Host Family may be unfamiliar to an Au Pair. To avoid misunderstandings, it’s helpful to talk about these five key topics before the Au Pair arrives. Open communication and compromise will make the experience better for everyone. If needed, these points can also be added to the Au Pair contract.

1. Showering Habits

This might seem like a strange topic, but it often causes confusion. Some people shower multiple times a day, while others think a few times a week is enough. Water use and shower time expectations can be very different. Talk about what works for both sides and agree on a reasonable routine.

2. TV and Screen Time

Every family has different rules for watching TV. Can the Au Pair watch TV while looking after the kids? Are there shows or streaming services they shouldn’t use? What about watching TV during their free time? Discuss these details early to avoid any misunderstandings.

3. Using Household Appliances

An Au Pair is like a new family member, but that doesn’t always mean they can use every household appliance freely. Some families prefer the Au Pair not to use the washing machine for very small loads or to be careful with special coffee machines or beauty tools. If there are limits, explain them clearly and make sure the Au Pair understands what’s allowed during work and free time.

4. Eating Habits and Meal Times

Food is one of the important topics of family life. Talk about any allergies, diets, or food preferences. If the Au Pair is vegetarian but needs to prepare meat for the kids, make sure they are okay with that. Also, discuss meal times—if the family eats at 6 PM but the Au Pair likes to cook later at night, it’s good to set expectations in advance.

5. Social Life and Going Out

Your Au Pair will want to make friends and enjoy their free time. But just like with your own kids, you may have rules. Talk about curfews, whether they need to tell you if they’ll be late, and any other expectations. Sorting these things out early will help avoid problems later.

Share Your Important Topics

Are you a Host Family with Au Pair experience? Have you faced any unexpected challenges? Share your tips in the comments below to help other families make their Au Pair stay a great experience!