Preparation before starting as an Au Pair

The preparation for the time as Au Pair should start as soon as possible. Or at least as soon as you have found a Host Family and hopefully have signed an Au Pair contract. Going abroad and starting to live with a new family is really exciting and the new Au Pair’s head will be all over the place. However, a good preparation is essential.

What do I need to prepare before I start my Au Pair year?

Depending on the country you are moving to, there may be specific requirements and you should ask the Host Parents all kind of questions which are important for you and your stay.

  • Which arrival date is best and who is paying for my flight?
  • Can anyone pick me up from the airport or do I need to find my own way to the Host Family?
  • Do I need a health insurance?
  • Are any immunisations neccessary or a certificate of health?
  • What documents do I need apart from my (valid) passport and drivind licence?
  • What possibilities exist to send clothes or anything else by Mail in advance?

What do I need to think of before leaving my home country?

  • Cancellation or pausing of contracts (mobile phone, gym, …)
  • Inform authorities about moving abroad for a longer period (bank, health insurance, job centre…)
  • Bring immunisation-, health- and medication record
  • Make sure you have PIN numbers for Debit/Credit cards and generell some money in the bank for emergencies
  • Second mobile phone for pre-paid SIM car
  • Maybe think about a present for the Host Family

How can I involve my parents in the preparation?

Your parents might also want to be involved in the preparation. We personally offer our future Au Pairs to talk to their parents in advance so that they get to know us as well and can ask questions that are on their mind. This definitely helps to ease their minds and reduces their nervousness about the upcoming, exciting change in your life.

We recommend not to worry too much if you believe that your parents and the Host Parents are different: Most Host Parents will rely on their first impression about you and not your parents who might be nervous when meeting the Host Parents or speaking in a foreign language. If either the Host Parents offer a chat or your parents ask for it, you should arrange a quick call if that’s ok for the other side. It´s nice to know that they spoke – even if it’s short – and is reassuring that your parents and Host Parents support you.

We have compiled more information on www.hostmum.com to help and guide you through the preparation process for your Au Pair Year.

 

The following article about a present for the host family could also be interesting for you.

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