Finding the perfect au pair for your family can be an exciting journey, but let’s be honest—it can also feel a bit overwhelming. You’re opening your home and your life to someone new, and you want to make sure it’s a good fit for everyone involved. That’s where the host family interview comes into play.
The Purpose of the Host Family Interview
Before we get into the details of how to conduct a host family interview, it’s important to understand why this is one of the most important things on the list of host family requirements. Think of it this way: The host family interview is your opportunity to dig deeper beyond the au pair’s application and see if they’re really a match for your family.
This interview is your chance to:
- Get to know the au pair as a person – Beyond the resume, you’ll want to know about their personality, hobbies, and what motivates them.
- Discuss expectations – Everyone has their own idea of what being an au pair entails, so it’s vital to clarify duties, schedules, and household rules.
- Gauge compatibility – You’re not just hiring a caregiver; you’re welcoming someone into your home. Ensuring they’ll get along with your kids (and you!) is crucial.
- Address any concerns – Maybe you’re worried about cultural differences or language barriers. This is your time to discuss and work through those concerns.
Questions to Ask During the Host Family Interview
Now, let’s get into the meat of the interview—the questions. You want to ask the right questions to help you understand who the au pair is and how they’ll fit into your family life. Here are some key areas to cover:
1. Experience and Background
Tell me about your experience with children. – This will give you insight into their practical experience and their comfort level with kids.
What attracted you to becoming an au pair? – Understanding their motivation can help you see if their goals align with what you’re looking for.
Can you share a challenge you’ve faced while caring for children and how you handled it? – This question reveals their problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence.
2. Daily Routine and Responsibilities
What does your ideal day with the children look like? – This helps you see if their idea of childcare aligns with yours.
How do you handle discipline? – It’s important that your au pair’s approach to discipline is in line with your parenting style.
Are you comfortable with helping out with household chores? – While childcare is the primary focus, many families appreciate help with light housework.
3. Cultural Exchange and Integration
What are you hoping to learn or experience during your time here? – This gives you a sense of their enthusiasm for the cultural exchange aspect of being an au pair.
How do you plan to handle homesickness or cultural differences? – It’s good to know they have thought about the challenges of living in a new country.
What would you like to share about your own culture with our family? – This can spark a fun conversation and give you a taste of the cultural exchange you’ll be experiencing.
4. Health and Safety
Are you trained in first aid or CPR? – Safety is paramount, and knowing your au pair has these skills can provide peace of mind.
How do you manage stress or emergencies? – This question can help you understand their ability to stay calm and effective in challenging situations.
Do you have any dietary restrictions or health concerns we should be aware of? – Being upfront about these details ensures there are no surprises later.
Listening Beyond the Words
As important as it is to ask the right questions, it’s equally crucial to listen carefully to the answers—and not just the words. Pay attention to body language, tone of voice, and how they respond to different topics. These non-verbal cues can tell you a lot about how the au pair might interact with your family.
For example, do they light up when talking about working with kids? Do they seem hesitant or unsure when discussing certain tasks? These observations can provide valuable insight into their personality and suitability for your family.
Discussing Expectations and Setting Boundaries
One of the most important parts of the host family interview is discussing expectations. Misunderstandings about duties, schedules, and house rules can lead to frustration on both sides, so it’s crucial to be clear from the start.
- Daily Schedule – Make sure the au pair understands what a typical day will look like, including their working hours and breaks.
- Duties and Responsibilities – Clarify what tasks they will be expected to perform, both with the children and around the house.
- House Rules – Every family has their own set of rules, whether it’s about screen time, meal routines, or curfews. Make sure these are clear from the outset.
It’s also a good idea to discuss boundaries. While you want to build a friendly relationship, it’s important that both sides respect each other’s space and privacy. Talk about how you’ll handle time off, personal space, and communication preferences.
Wrapping Up the Interview
As you near the end of the interview, give the au pair a chance to ask their own questions. This not only helps them feel more comfortable but also gives you a better sense of what’s important to them.
Once all questions have been answered, let the au pair know what the next steps will be. Whether it’s scheduling a follow-up interview or discussing a trial period, being clear about what happens next can help avoid any uncertainty.
Ready for the Next Step?
The host family interview is just one part of finding the perfect au pair, but it’s a critical one. By taking the time to ask the right questions and listen carefully to the answers, you’re not just hiring a caregiver—you’re welcoming a new member into your family.
