Freya’s Gap Year Adventure as an Au Pair in America

Freya from Adelaide has recently graduated from high school and chose to become an Au Pair in America during her gap year before starting university. She has been living in Maryland since February 2024, caring for two boys aged 3 and 5.

What’s your host family like?

My host family is truly awesome and has definitely become a second family to me. Although both parents work hard and are dedicated to their jobs, they are equally committed to making me feel comfortable and welcome in their family. As you can see in the pictures, I look after two young boys, Miles (5) and Tanner (3). Although they keep me on my toes, they feel like my younger brothers. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel with them and see new and exciting places, really immersing myself in the culture, which has made this experience even more rewarding.

What has been your favourite Au Pair memory so far?

I don’t think I have just one favourite memory, but I loved travelling to Hilton Head, South Carolina with my host family, and also to Boston for a long weekend. In terms of memories with friends, I’ve been lucky enough to attend high school events and parties, as well as go to baseball games, as shown in the photos.

What have you learned from being an Au Pair?

So far, I’ve learned the importance of keeping an open mind, especially when entering new environments. I’ve also learned to make the most of every opportunity and to embrace the experience fully, along with everything that comes with it.

What are your plans when you return to Australia?

When I return to Australia, I plan to complete my four-year degree in primary education while working part-time with children. I also plan to visit my host family whenever I can!

Would you recommend Au Pair in America, and if so, why?

Absolutely, 100%! I’ve had an amazing experience with Au Pair in America, not only with the agency and my counsellor but also in finding the perfect host family. While the process of getting here was a bit tedious, it truly shows the dedication and effort the agency puts in. Having a community counsellor provides great support, from help with education to assistance in making friends. It really shows how much the agency cares for each Au Pair.

Any advice for others thinking about becoming an Au Pair?

One piece of advice I wish I had known before coming is that it’s okay to feel nervous or scared — you’re entering a completely new environment on your own. But allow yourself to open up, adapt, and embrace the whole experience. I would also say that at some point, you will feel homesick, and that’s completely normal. For me, being on the other side of the world from my family, with a difficult time zone, has been challenging, but it’s important to let yourself process those emotions rather than bottling them up or ignoring them.

And to those considering becoming an Au Pair but who aren’t quite sure: go for it! You only get this kind of opportunity once in your life, and the experiences and friendships you make along the way are lifelong. Don’t live in regret of not doing it while you can!

Need help with something?

Frequently Asked Questions

01
What is the age limit for Au Pair in America?

You must be aged between 18-26 to participate in Au Pair in America. We recommend applicants apply at least 6 months prior to their 27th birthday to have sufficient time to complete the application and arrive in the USA. You can also start your application when you are 17 provided you are 18 by the time your placement begins.
02
What kind of childcare experience do I need?

You must have a minimum of 200 referenced hours of childcare, but this can cover basically anything related to children! For example, internships or work in daycare centres, schools, nurseries, children's nurses, camp counsellors, sports coaches, babysitting or tutoring. Caring for family members is also great experience and should be included on your application, however it won’t be counted as childcare hours.
03
Can I be an Au Pair in America for less than 12 months?

Au Pair in America is a minimum 12-month commitment. This may seem like a long time but trust us when we say the year will fly by.
04
Do I need to have a full driving license?

As most families require an Au pair who can drive, it is a requirement that you have a driving license. We accept P-Plate drivers, as this is the equivalent of a full license in the US. If you are a Learner driver you can still begin your application, but you'll need to pass your driving test before starting your placement.
05
How will I make friends and meet people?

All Au pairs join a local 'cluster', which is a group of other Au Pair in America participants in your local area. Each cluster is managed by a local Community Counsellor who plans monthly meetings and events for your cluster group to get together and participate in a fun activity such as movie nights, sporting events or cultural activities. Attending these meetings and events is expected of our Au Pairs and is the easiest way to meet other Au Pairs and make lots of new friends.
06
How far ahead should I apply?

We recommend that you apply as soon as you have made the decision to participate. It's good to try to get your application finished about 6 months before you'd like to travel to America. On average, it takes roughly 4 weeks to complete an application from start to finish, including attending an interview.
07
What if I already know the family I want to Au Pair for?

Yes, this is possible - we call it a "pre-match." Both you and the family must still meet the requirements for the program. You should contact the Sydney office with information on the family and the family will need to apply through our US office and go through the normal screening process. You will also still need to submit a full application and be interviewed.
08
What if I’m homesick or my placement doesn’t work out?

Our aim is that both the Au Pair and Host Family have a happy, successful year. Should a conflict occur between you and your Host Family, the Community Counsellor will assist to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. If the issues cannot be resolved, you will go into ‘rematch’ where you will be able to find a new family.
Remember that it's perfectly natural to feel a bit homesick when you arrive in the USA. You should be able to overcome this through the help of your Host Family, your Community Counsellor and your new Au Pair friends. If you do really want to return home then you will forfeit your return flight and you may not be able to participate on another US cultural exchange program in the future, so please think carefully about your decision to leave early.
09
If I've been an Au Pair in America before, can I return?
Yes! We have a returnee program available, providing that you:
- Have successfully completed your first stay in America
- Have completed the educational component of the program
- Can provide a copy of your completion certificate and reference from your previous Host Family
- Have lived outside of the USA for at least 2 years
If you want to return to the same family as before, we can help arrange this if you qualify as a ‘returnee Au Pair’ and your Host Family are happy to have you back again.