Au Pair Interview Questions for Host Families
A first au pair interview should help you understand whether daily life could work well together — and whether your values match. These questions help host families talk about childcare, routines, communication and living together in a warm but practical way.
What this call is really for
The goal is not to find a perfect answer to every question. The goal is to understand whether the au pair’s experience, comfort level and personality fit your children, home and daily rhythm.
Keep the conversation specific. Ask about real moments: mornings, tired children, meals, activities, privacy, feedback and the first few weeks together.
Childcare experience
- What ages of children have you cared for before?
- Which childcare tasks do you feel confident doing independently?
- What would you still need help learning during the first weeks?
- How do you respond when a child is tired, emotional or refusing to listen?
Daily routines
- How would you feel about helping with morning routines?
- Are you comfortable preparing simple meals or lunchboxes for children?
- How do you feel about school runs, activities or playground visits?
- What kind of daily rhythm helps you feel calm and organised?
Living with a family
- Have you lived away from home before?
- How much private time do you usually need after a busy day?
- Would you enjoy joining some family meals or activities?
- What would help you feel comfortable in a new household?
Communication
- How do you prefer to receive feedback?
- What would you do if you were unsure about a task or routine?
- How would you tell us if something felt too much or unclear?
- Would a weekly check-in help you during the first weeks?
Values and family style
- What values are important to you when living with a family?
- How do you usually communicate when something feels unclear?
- What does respect, reliability and flexibility mean to you?
- How much family involvement would feel good to you?
- How do you respond when expectations are different from what you imagined?
Free Host Family Interview Checklist
Use the printable checklist before your first video call. It helps you prepare useful questions without making the conversation feel formal or cold.
Open the free checklist →Also useful
Au Pair Matching Guide
Browse all matching preparation resources in one place, from profiles and video calls to questions, red flags and the starter pack.
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Questions au pairs should ask host families
Use both sides of the conversation to prepare a clearer match.
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What to discuss before saying yes to a match
Talk through practical expectations before anyone commits.
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