Once the paperwork is complete, it’s time for the most exciting part — welcoming your au pair into your home. A smooth start helps them feel comfortable and sets the tone for a positive stay.
Prepare for your au pair’s arrival
1. Get the room ready
Your au pair must have their own private, furnished room in your home. Beyond meeting the basic requirements, a little extra care can make the space more comfortable and inviting.
See our full guide on Au Pair Room Requirements for both the minimum standards and practical tips on how to make the room functional and welcoming.
2. Use the Family Handbook
The AuPairWorld Family Handbook is a customizable interactive PDF that helps families collect all the important information an au pair needs in one place. Premium Members receive it by email and can fill it out directly on their computer, then print it for their au pair to use.
Inside, you can record details such as:
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House rules and safety information
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Daily routines and childcare details
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Food preferences and allergies
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Instructions for appliances
Completing it before your au pair arrives helps avoid misunderstandings and gives them a clear reference to return to throughout their stay.
The Handbook also includes space for the weekly schedule, which you can fill in together once your au pair arrives. For more guidance on what a weekly schdeule could look like and a downloadable template, see our article on Creating an Au Pair Schedule.
3. Prepare practical essentials
Some things are good to prepare before your au pair arrives, so they can get started smoothly from day one:
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A spare set of house keys
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A registered public transport card, if this takes time to arrange in your city
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A bike or other transport option, if this is how they’ll get around
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Emergency contacts printed and easy to find (also included in the Family Handbook)
These small preparations save time and stress in the first week and help your au pair settle in quickly.
4. Plan the first days together
If possible, take some time off work during the first week to accompany your au pair. Focus on orientation rather than full responsibility.
Show them:
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How things work at home and the general routine
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The children’s routes to school and after-school activities
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Common routes — by car (if they’ll drive) or public transport
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Key contacts like teachers or activity leaders (for authorisation and safety)
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Important nearby places such as shops, parks, pharmacies, and the family doctor
Gradually introduce childcare duties once they’re familiar with routines, and plan a few family activities to help everyone bond. Spending extra time together at the start gives your au pair confidence and helps them settle faster.
5. Create a warm welcome
A small welcome pack can make your au pair feel instantly included. Ideas include:
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Local snacks or treats
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A city or local guide with things to do in the area (cafés, parks, activities)
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A welcome note or drawing from your children
These gestures show appreciation and set a positive tone for the stay.
6. Explore helpful extras
To make your au pair’s start even smoother, we’ve partnered with trusted providers offering practical services for both families and au pairs — all in one place on our extras page.
These include:
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eSIMs so your au pair can be connected as soon as they arrive
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Insurance options designed for au pairs
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Language courses to help your au pair improve and intergrate faster
Tip: Many of these services also include special offers or discounts just for AuPairWorld users.
A warm welcome goes a long way
With a prepared room, a completed Handbook, and support during the first week, your au pair will feel at home and ready to be part of your family life.
Once your au pair has settled in, it’s all about connection. These articles share practical advice on understanding your au pair, giving feedback, and creating a positive partnership: