au pair

How to write a letter to the Au Pair / Host Family: step by step guide

⏱ Reading time: 4 min.
The welcome letter is extremely important - no matter if you apply as an Au Pair or as a Host Family, you need to make a good first impression on the other side. 
 
Go ahead and find out how to write a great:
 
host family letter
The welcome letter helps to create a great first impression on your future Host Family or Au Pair and give them a better idea of your expectations and personality. 
Free Registration as Family
How to write an Au Pair letter? If you are a Host Family, have a look at how to write a “Dear Au Pair” letter, and if you are an Au Pair, make sure to go through our recommendations regarding “Dear Host Family” letter

Read the most frequently asked questions while writing an Au Pair or a Host Family letter and visit our wiki for detailed and important information about the Au Pair program.

“Dear Au Pair” letter

Try to explain to the possible candidates why you would like to host an Au Pair. Do not forget to give the Au Pair a few reasons why you would be the perfect match. Convince the Au Pair that she/he is going to have a great time with your family!

Video: Writing a Welcome Letter: Host Family

In the following video, we're looking at how you can make a great impression by writing a welcome letter to a host family. In the video and below you can find some advice to create a better letter.

Language recommendations

Write your letter using simple words and phrases so that, even if the Au Pair has just basic knowledge of the language, she/he can still understand it.
 
Whether you are a Host Family or an Au Pair, write the letter in a friendly manner. Remember that the Au Pair program is a cultural exchange. You are not an employer or employee, thus try to sound natural and cheerful.

Personal introduction 

Write a brief introduction about your family, but do not specify your contact details in the letters. Explain to the Au Pair:
  • Who the parents are
  • How many kids you have 
  • How old the children are
  • If the kids are attending school yet
  • What the kids are into 
  • What family activities you enjoy doing together
  • How you spend your weekends
  • Describe your home and how your household works

Why do you want to host an Au Pair?

Write about your expectations towards your future Au Pair. Why would you like to host an Au Pair? What responsibilities would you like him/her to have? How does a typical day of your family look like? Mention if you have previously hosted an Au Pair or were cooperating in any way with people from abroad. 

Looking forward to meeting your Au Pair?

Let's get you started. Choose the preferred nationality of your future Au Pair: ... or see all »
 

“Dear Host Family” letter

You can start your letter explaining to the family the reasons why you would like to work as an Au Pair. Make sure to emphasize why you would be the perfect future Au Pair. 
Free Registration as Candidate


Have a look below and discover some tips to help you create an amazing welcome letter.

Language recommendations

host family letter
Most of the Au Pairs choose their future host country to learn or improve the language spoken there. If you have a basic knowledge of it, write your letter in the host country language to show your interest and skills. It is not that important if you make mistakes, as long as your text can be understood. Host Families will probably appreciate your effort. In case you don't feel confident about the Host Family's language, write the text in English. You can also add an English translation to the original text to explain the main ideas. 

Personal introduction

Make a brief introduction about you, talk about your interests, hobbies, what you like to do, but do not specify your contact details. Introduce briefly your family, and describe it! If you have siblings, your prospective Host Family would surely love to hear about them.

Why would you like to be an Au Pair?

Many Host Families are really curious about your reasons to work as an Au Pair, your future plans and goals.
  • What do you expect from this new experience?
  • What are your hobbies and interests? 
  • What do you like to do in your leisure time?
  • What do you want to do after your Au Pair stay? 
  • What are your plans for the future?
  • Why do you want to become an Au Pair? 
  • What are your personal motives?
  • Why did you choose that particular country as your future host country?
  • Why should the family host you as the Au Pair?

Find a Host Family with AuPair.com!

Where would you like to spend a few months as an Au Pair? Choose one of the favourite Au Pair destinations and find a Host Family there: ... or search for a family all over the world »
Host Families usually need a trustworthy person to take care of their children. Why would you be the best choice for a Host Family? Here you can mention your previous international experiences and childcare skills you have learned through different activities. At the same time, showing your interest about their lifestyle and traditions is always a plus! You can also let the Host Family know everything you have learned about the host country and why you chose this country. 
 
Share your plans after the Au Pair stay as well, maybe this adventure will be helpful to achieve your future plans and goals.

Why can’t I include my contact details in the letters?
There are two main reasons. Firstly, it is for your security. AuPair.com checks all registered users on a daily basis. Fake accounts are usually blocked within minutes, but even a small delay allows scammers to proceed further. If your contact details are visible in your profile, they could fall into the wrong hands. Be careful when you are sharing contact and personal details. The second reason is our payment policy.
How can I contact a Host Family?
You need to visit the Host Family’s profile and drop a message there. If the family is a Premium Member, they will be able to read your message and answer it in no time. You can also add a Host Family to your hotlist. The families will immediately get notified that you are interested! Please find more information here
How long does it take to find a Host Family?
It depends on several factors. Create your profile and make it attractive for other users. Check that you meet the Au Pair requirements set by the Au Pair program. Be active and contact 20-30 Host Families per day. While contacting the Host Families, make also sure that you fulfil the family’s expectations. Be active, open minded and try to convince families that the time spent with you will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for their kids! Generally speaking, it takes from one week up to a few months to find a Host Family


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