Cultural Care au pairs

Between 18-26 years old
Have at least 200+ hours of childcare experience
High school graduate or equivalent
Proficient in conversational English
And so much more

Find an au pair

Our screening & selection process

Step 1

Mandatory info meeting

Cultural Care au pairs learn about program requirements and expectations

Step 2

Initial screening interview

Eligibility and experience are asessed by staff

Step 3

Completion of online application

Including work and driving experience, NeuroColor test results identifying personality and communication style, and interests

Step 4

One-on-one interview

Goals and motivations are evaluated through personal conversation

Step 5

English evaluation

English competency is assessed and included in all profiles

Step 6

Reference & background check

References are verified and criminal background check completed

Meet the childcare solution that fits your family

What can au pairs do?

All of these and more!

Assist with newborns and independently care for children over 3 months old

Manage morning & bedtime routine

Prepare meals and snacks for the children

Help with kids’ laundry and keeping their rooms tidy

An additional driver for school pick up and drop off, sports, and activities

Share their culture and language—nurture your children’s curiosity and kindness

Apply now

Pre-departure & ongoing support

On program support

Au pairs are supported by their Local Childcare Consultants who remain in contact with both the au pair and host family every month, plan at least two community events per year, and provide support as needed.

CPR & First Aid course

As part of the online training school, au pairs complete a CPR and First Aid course provided by the American Heart Association.

Get ready workshop

Au pairs join pre-departure workshops offered by the local offices in their home countries. Topics include program regulations, household duties, childcare duties and more.

Meet some of our au pairs, from 30+ countries worldwide

Benefits of cultural exchange for kids & families

Exposure to a new language

Through daily interactions, au pairs will introduce your children to a new language, sparking curiosity and naturally developing bilingual skills.

Embrace diverse traditions

From sharing holiday customs to international meals, au pairs bring culture into your home and create unique and memorable experiences.

Build global awareness

With an au pair, your children gain a window into the world, fostering understanding and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives.

Form lasting bonds

The au pair experience is all about connection. Host families create lifelong friendships and meaningful relationships that transcend borders.

Find an au pair

Hear from the host kids

Host kids talk about the impact hosting au pairs has had on them.

Real stories from our au pair program

“We absolutely love our au pair and couldn’t imagine life without her.

Childcare, family bonding, and cultural enrichment all in one shot. After struggling with daycare and babysitters, we no longer worry or stress. It’s amazing to have consistency!”

— Shannon, host mom in RI

Hosting an au pair FAQs

Why do au pairs join the program?

Au pairs join our program for many reasons, but their primary motivation is the desire to become part of an American family and immerse themselves in American culture. Beyond that, they aim to improve their English, build lifelong friendships, explore the USA, and gain valuable international work experience. Families who utilize au pair services not only benefit from flexible childcare but also enjoy a rich cultural exchange that leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Where are au pairs from?

Can au pairs drive?

Yes. Having an au pair who can drive your children to school and activities is a big benefit of the au pair program, and au pairs are generally licensed to drive in their home country and travel to the U.S. with an International Driver’s Permit. If you plan to have your au pair drive during their year, you’ll need to provide the appropriate coverage under your auto insurance and be prepared to help them adjust to driving in the U.S.

What’s the difference between an au pair and a nanny?

Many people understand the terms “au pair” and “nanny” to mean the same thing, but they are actually quite different. In the U.S., an au pair refers to a young person from overseas who lives with an American family to care for their children and participate in a cultural exchange. They travel on a legal, one-year visa through a designated au pair agency, and their working hours and conditions are regulated by the U.S. Department of State. Au pairs initially commit to a one-year stay but have the opportunity to extend their time in the U.S. for 6, 9 or 12 months. They are excited to immerse themselves in new culture, improve their English, and explore the U.S. The term “nanny”, on the other hand, is a more general term that can be used to describe both professionally trained caregivers and those with less formal experience.

More FAQs