Becoming an au pair is more than just living abroad and caring for children—it’s about building trust, sharing culture, and becoming a valuable part of a family. While each host family is different, there are certain qualities they universally look for when choosing the right au pair.
If you’re considering joining an au pair program and want to stand out as a great candidate, here are the top 7 qualities families appreciate most.
1. Responsibility
Caring for children is a serious responsibility. Host families need someone they can trust to keep their children safe, follow routines, and take initiative.
What it looks like:
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Arriving on time
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Following instructions
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Being attentive and proactive during childcare
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Taking ownership of tasks without constant reminders
Being responsible shows the family that their children are in good hands.
2. Flexibilidad
No two days are exactly the same in family life. Great au pairs are adaptable and ready to adjust when plans change—whether that’s a shift in schedule, a new school routine, or helping out in unexpected situations.
Flexibility doesn’t mean working extra hours without agreement, but it does mean having a positive and understanding attitude when things don’t go exactly as planned.
3. Genuine Love for Children
Families want someone who truly enjoys spending time with kids—not someone who sees it as just a job. A great au pair is playful, patient, and caring, and builds a connection with the children.
What families notice:
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You smile and engage with kids during the interview
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You ask questions about the children’s personalities and interests
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You come up with ideas for games, crafts, or activities
4. Good Communication Skills
Clear and open communication is essential for a smooth au pair experience. Misunderstandings can be avoided when both sides talk honestly and respectfully.
Great au pairs:
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Ask questions when something is unclear
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Share how they’re feeling during weekly check-ins
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Give feedback in a polite, constructive way
Even if your language skills aren’t perfect, the effort to communicate makes a big difference.
5. Cultural Openness and Respect
As an au pair, you’ll be living in someone else’s home, adjusting to a different culture, and becoming part of a new daily life. Being respectful and curious about different traditions, rules, and customs is essential.
Families value au pairs who:
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Try local foods
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Participate in family activities
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Respect house rules and parenting styles
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Are willing to share their own culture too
This cultural exchange goes both ways!
6. Maturity and Emotional Intelligence
Living abroad, dealing with homesickness, and adapting to a new environment can be challenging. That’s why emotional resilience and maturity are key traits of a successful au pair.
Examples of emotional intelligence:
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Handling conflict calmly
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Being aware of your own emotions
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Understanding others’ perspectives
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Showing empathy and patience with children
Families feel more at ease when they know their au pair can handle daily life with a level head.
7. Initiative and Motivation
A great au pair doesn’t wait to be told what to do—they notice what needs to be done and offer help. Whether it’s organizing toys, preparing a snack, or helping a child with homework, showing initiative makes you stand out.
Bonus tip: During your interview, share examples of times when you took initiative in past jobs, volunteer work, or even family situations.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Babysitter
Being a great au pair means being responsible, kind, and curious. It means building a relationship with the children, contributing to the family’s daily life, and embracing cultural exchange with an open heart.
If you focus on developing these 7 qualities—and presenting them clearly in your profile and interviews—you’ll be well on your way to a successful and unforgettable au pair experience.
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