Au Pair First Week Checklist

A practical first-week checklist for host families. Use it to help your au pair feel welcome, understand your routines and know what to do in everyday and emergency situations.

Download the printable checklist

Print the checklist and use it during the first week. You can tick items off together with your au pair and keep the sheet in your family handbook or on the fridge.

Download first week checklist PDF →

Before your au pair arrives

Prepare the au pair room
Share the address and arrival details
Send the weekly rhythm in advance
Prepare house keys or access instructions
Prepare Wi-Fi details
Print the emergency sheet
Prepare a small welcome note or welcome basket

Day 1: Welcome and settle in

Give a calm house tour
Show the au pair room and bathroom
Explain Wi-Fi, keys, alarm and basic house rules
Show where food, towels and laundry are kept
Introduce the children gently
Keep expectations light on the first day
Eat together if possible

First 2–3 days: Learn the family rhythm

Walk through the morning routine
Walk through the after-school or daycare routine
Explain meals, snacks and allergies
Show school, daycare or activity routes
Practise bike routes or public transport routes
Explain screen time rules
Explain what to do when a child is upset or tired

Safety and emergency basics

Share emergency phone numbers
Explain allergies, medication and medical needs
Show first aid items
Explain who to call first in an emergency
Explain door, alarm and visitor rules
Explain swimming, playground and street safety
Make sure the au pair knows the home address by heart

End of week check-in

Ask what feels clear and what still feels confusing
Review working hours and free time
Review routines that need more explanation
Talk about food, privacy and household expectations
Ask how the children are adjusting
Agree how daily updates should be shared
Plan the next week together

Tip for the first week

Do not try to explain everything at once. The first week works best when information is repeated calmly, routines are shown in real life and your au pair has space to ask questions.