THE PLACEMENT PROCESS
Your application is available to our host families through our secure online matching system and will be sent to families whose childcare needs match your experience. Several host families can review your application at any one time, and if they are interested in contacting you, you will receive an email asking you to log in to your Participant Site to see their details. The host family may email you to set up a time to Skype or talk on the telephone. If you can't see their essay or photos, email the host family to introduce yourself and ask for more information.
THE HOST FAMILY INTERVIEW
The host family interview is an opportunity for you and a family to learn about each other’s personalities and expectations. It is important to prepare yourself for the interview - always have a list of questions by the telephone with a pen and paper. Please click here to read our useful guide 'When a host family calls'.
When you accept an invitation from a family to join them, you are making a commitment to be their au pair for a minimum of one year. A good relationship with your host family will help to make your stay in the United States a rewarding one. Our advice is that you match with the first host family that you feel comfortable with.
Remember to note the host family’s name and where they live when they call. If English is not your native language and you do not understand a question or an answer, don’t be afraid to ask the family to repeat it or to speak more slowly so that you can understand.
Avoid giving “yes-no” responses. Ask questions which encourage conversation. If the interview goes well, you might make a definite match at the end of that first call, or you and the host family may decide to set up a time to speak again within the next couple of days. Arrange a convenient time for the host family to call again and make sure that you are available to take the call. At the end of the interview, the host family may ask you to be their au pair. Once you accept an invitation from a family you should not receive any further calls from other prospective host families. If you do, let them know that you have already accepted an invitation from another family.
YOUR ARRIVAL DATE
When you agree to match with a host family you and your family must agree on your arrival date. The date you choose will be difficult to change, so please make sure you will be available to fly on the day agreed upon. Consider any notice you must give your employer and any family commitments that you may have.
A family may ask you to come as early as four weeks time (the minimum time required to obtain your visa and make flight arrangements) or several months later depending upon your availability and their childcare needs. You will fly to the New York area where you will stay for three nights at our Orientation Program after which you will travel to your host family.