Jobs Working With Kids: Become an Au Pair in the U.S.

Every day is an adventure when you have a job working with kids! They make you laugh with their unfiltered comments, help you see the world from a unique perspective, and give you an incredible opportunity to help shape the minds of the next generation.

There are lots of different jobs that let you work with kids, but if you’re looking to travel and have a sense of adventure, becoming an au pair in the United States can be the right choice for you. Au pair jobs allow you to live with a host family, care for children, and experience American culture—all while earning a stipend and furthering your education!

In this guide, we’ll explore:

1. What it means to be an au pair in the U.S.
2. Why it’s one of the best jobs for working with kids
3. What to expect from your time as an au pair
4. How to apply with AuPairCare

At AuPairCare, we know that au pairs don’t just provide childcare, they become part of a family! We’re a leading au pair agency that connects international au pairs with families in the United States, offering visa sponsorship and supporting you throughout your year of adventure.

Read on to learn why being an au pair is one of the best jobs working with kids, or take the first step by starting your AuPairCare application here!

What is an Au Pair Program?

The au pair program in the U.S. is a cultural exchange program, and “au pair” is a French phrase meaning “on par” or “equal to”, because as an au pair, you’re not just hired help—you’re meant to become a temporary member of your host family. You’ll live with them, share meals, learn about American culture, and most importantly, care for their children. Let’s break down what being an au pair is really like.

Typical Au Pair Tasks and Responsibilities

The main focus of an au pair’s job is childcare, but your day-to-day tasks will vary depending on the family’s needs and the ages of the kids. Most au pairs spend their days:

• Getting the children ready for school or daycare
• Driving them to and from activities
• Helping with homework or school projects
• Preparing simple meals and snacks for the children
• Organizing fun activities like crafts, games, or walks to the park
• Helping with bedtime routines
• Doing light household chores related to the children, like tidying up toys, kids' laundry, or loading the dishwasher

Being an au pair in America is not the same as being a full-time housekeeper or personal assistant. Your main role is to support the children, and any household tasks should be related to them.

Who Can Become an Au Pair?

Au pair programs are designed for people who really love working with kids and want to explore life in another country. There are a few general requirements you’ll need to meet if you want to au pair in the United States, including:

• Be between 18 and 26 years old at the time of application
• Have at least 200 hours of childcare experience (babysitting, tutoring, working at a daycare, etc.)
• Be proficient in English (you don’t need to be fluent, but you should feel comfortable communicating)
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be in good health and able to pass a criminal background check
• Hold a driver’s license, as many families need help with driving kids
• Be flexible, open-minded, and excited about cultural exchange

Au pairs come from all over the world, each bringing their own unique personality, skills, and culture to share with their host families. If you love working with kids, are eager to experience life in the U.S., and are ready for a little adventure, you could be the perfect fit!

Why Should You Become an Au Pair in the United States?

There are many jobs working with kids, but being an au pair in the U.S. offers something truly special. As an au pair, you get to step into a new culture, live with an American family, and grow personally and professionally. You’ll learn as much as you teach, and the memories you make will stay with you long after you return home! Here are just a few of the reasons so many young people choose this path.

Dive into a New Culture and Travel Around the Country

One of the biggest draws of becoming an au pair is the chance to explore a new country. The United States is full of diverse destinations, landscapes, and cultures—whether you find yourself hiking in the mountains of Colorado, soaking up the sun in southern California, visiting iconic museums in Washington D.C., or enjoying small-town life in the Midwest, every day is an opportunity to experience something new.

But it’s not just about work and travel in the USA. You’ll also take part in daily American life by celebrating holidays like Thanksgiving, joining family traditions, and discovering what makes U.S. culture unique. In return, you’ll share your own culture, language, and customs with your host family, making it a true exchange. Here’s how our au pair Geraldine spent her first Thanksgiving:

“Thanksgiving was a special day for me and my Host Family! It was a beautiful day, I felt like part of your family! We were at the girls' Granny's house and as is tradition we ate turkey and wine and a lot of food! It was my first Thanksgiving here and I'm happy!”

Take Your English to the Next Level

Living in an English-speaking household is one of the fastest ways to improve your English skills. As an au pair, you’ll be surrounded by English every day—not just in structured settings like classes, but around the dinner table, when you’re playing with the kids, and every time you start a conversation.

You’ll naturally develop your listening, speaking, and even writing skills as you help kids with homework or chat with parents. Many au pairs notice their English improves much faster than they expected, which can be a huge bonus for your studies and future career. As au pair Yurley puts it:

“It is a unique and unforgettable experience, since from the first day you dare to practice English, learn from another culture, make friends, travel and build yourself for the future.”

Earning a Stipend While Living With a Host Family

Unlike many internships or volunteer positions, au pair jobs come with a weekly stipend. You also get the convenience and safety of living with a host family, and all your accommodation is paid for! With your rent and meals covered, you can spend your au pair salary on weekend adventures, shopping trips, or even save it.

This setup makes the au pair program an affordable way to live in the U.S. while you earn valuable childcare experience. Plus, living with a host family is one of the best parts of the whole program! Here’s what Kristine has to say:

“I love my previous host family even now we keep in touch. I liked my experience as my host family was very kind to me and treated me well. I am really very grateful for my experience.”

Further Yourself with Educational Opportunities

U.S. regulations require that au pairs complete a certain number of hours in an educational setting during their stay. This is a great opportunity to take classes at a local college or community center, improve your English even more, or explore a subject you’re passionate about, whether it’s photography, psychology, or business.

You’ll have the chance to complete six college credits (60 hours) for classes of your choice, and your host family will pay your tuition fees up to $500! Not only will you be working and traveling, but you’ll also be learning and growing academically during your time in the U.S. Plus, the valuable childcare experience you’ll earn can help you on a future childcare-related career path.

Making Lifelong Friendships and Professional Connections

One of the best parts of being an au pair is the relationships you build while you’re gaining work experience abroad. Many au pairs form close bonds with their host families—some even stay in touch for years after their program ends. You’ll also meet other au pairs from around the world at orientation events, local meetups, and organized trips.

Some of these friendships often turn into a strong support system, while others may lead to professional connections and references that can help you when applying for future jobs working with kids or even other international programs. As au pair Anna explains, you’ll make friends for life:

“I just finished my AuPair program in Orlando, Florida with AuPairCare! I had a great experience and an even greater Area director who was always there for me and the other AuPairs! I‘m so blessed that I found new friends for life and I‘m looking forward to staying in touch with all the AuPairs and my area director!!!!”

How to Become an Au Pair in the United States

So, you’re excited about the idea of becoming an au pair—but how do you actually make it happen? The good news is that the process is straightforward, especially when you work with an experienced au pair agency. In fact, if you choose the right program, you’ll have guidance and support every step of the way—from matching with a host family to navigating au pair visa requirements.

Why Work With AuPairCare?

AuPairCare has been supporting au pairs and host families for over 35 years. We are a U.S. Department of State-designated J-1 visa sponsor, which means we can safely facilitate your legal entry into the U.S. to work as a paid au pair. When you choose AuPairCare, you get:

• Pre-screened host families: You’ll be matched with families who have been carefully vetted and screened by our team.
• 24/7 support: Local area directors and emergency support are always available if you need help during your time in the United States.
• Orientation and training: Before you even meet your host family, you’ll receive training in childcare, safety, and adjusting to life in the U.S.
• Fun community: AuPairCare regularly organizes events and meetups, so you’ll have plenty of chances to meet other au pairs and make friends.
• Help with paperwork: From visa forms to travel arrangements, AuPairCare will walk you through each step.

As a trusted, experienced agency, we can make your au pair experience smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

How to Apply

Before you start your AuPairCare application, make sure you meet our eligibility criteria. We outlined them above, but here’s a recap:

• 18 to 26 years old
• English proficiency
• At least 200 hours of childcare experience
• High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Good health and a clear background check
• Valid driver’s license

You can also learn more about our program and eligibility requirements here.

If you think you’re a good fit, you can start your AuPairCare application here. You’ll create a profile detailing your background, childcare experience, interests, and reasons for becoming an au pair. Once your profile is live, our screened host families can view it and decide whether you’d be a good fit for their family.

When a host family reaches out to you, you can set up a video call to get to know each other, ask questions, and see if it feels like a match. You don’t have to match with the first family you talk to—many au pairs interview with several families before choosing their host family.

After you mutually match with a host family, we’ll help you apply for your J-1 au pair visa. We’ll provide the forms you need to schedule your visa interview, which you’ll have to attend in person at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Don’t worry—we’ll guide you through the whole process!

Au Pair Training and Orientation

Once your visa is approved, the real adventure begins! Before you leave home, you’ll need to complete our au pair online training modules, which cover everything from basic childcare knowledge to first aid and adapting to life in the United States. We want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible for a successful year as an au pair!

Next, we’ll fly you to New York City for our exclusive, in-person orientation event—AuPairCare Connect NYC. This gives you a chance to bond with other au pairs, meet the AuPairCare team, and get a taste of U.S. culture and what it’s like to be an au pair. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to explore one of the world’s most iconic cities—the perfect way to start your au pair placement!

After AuPairCare Connect wraps up, you’ll meet your host family and settle into your new home. You’ll also meet your AuPairCare Area Director, who’s based in your local area and is your first point of contact whenever you need help or support. They’ll also organize regular activities and events for you and the other au pairs in your area!

Discover the Best Au Pair Experience With AuPairCare!

As far as jobs working with kids go, you can’t beat being an au pair. What other job gives you the chance to travel and work abroad in a new country for a year, with your rent and meals taken care of?! You’ll form genuine connections with your host family, get to discover a new culture, further your education, and spend your free time exploring the United States.

The AuPairCare program is full of growth, fun, and lifelong memories. We’ve helped thousands of young people from around the world live out their American dream, with world-class visa support and guidance all throughout your time in the United States. Whether it’s your first time traveling abroad or you’re looking for a meaningful next step in life, our team will make sure you feel confident, safe, and excited.

So, if you’re passionate about kids, eager to learn, and ready for an incredible journey—why wait? Take the leap, start your AuPairCare application today, and discover just how rewarding life as an au pair in the United States can be!