Do I need to be able to speak italian?

Nope! Many of the families we work with are hoping to improve their English. You will be there to provide conversation and basic corrections to the members of your host family. Of course knowing some Italian will help with daily tasks in the community and traveling through the country. Once accepted, we will provide more recommendations and resources to aid in you learning some common phrases and words.

What are the expectations of the host families?

Generally the host families are looking for someone who will interact with their kids to aid in them developing their English. This involves spending time with them each day doing activities, reading, playing games, etc. Each host family may have slightly different needs depending on the time of year and age of the kids. You can expect to fulfill a teaching and childcaring role while staying with your host family.

What is the schedule like? Can I travel?

Yes! This is something that will be organized once matching with a host family. Generally you will have the weekends to make your own plans and travel. If needed additional time off can be arranged with your host family in advance. During the school year it is likely you will be working with them in the afternoon to evening time. Summer hours could vary depending on the schedule of the family. You can expect to be engaging with the family 20-30 hours a week. Although arrangements can be made so you stay and hang out with your host family, Italy has so many great cities and sites to see. You won’t want to miss out on a chance to explore!

Will i be safe?

For both families and Au Pairs there is an extensive interview and application process. Naturally as a tourist you may experience pick pocketing or other petty crimes. Luckily there are a lot of resources and products out there to help you avoid losing anything valuable to you. Check out our Amazon lists for products we love and recommend for your travels.

what are the requirements of the program?

We currently are accepting applicants 18 years and older. We do expect you have some experience with children. Whether that be teaching, babysitting, tutoring or nannying. We are looking to work with applicants that are out going, involved, and friendly. We hope you love traveling and are looking to make the most of your time abroad!

what if I get homesick or need to come home early?

Being away from home can be hard. It will be important for you to commit to making goals and plans ahead of time. We expect you to actively engage with your host family and making the most of your time in Italy. Having daily routines, planning trips that you look forward to, and being open to new experience can help you overcome any feelings of being homesick. Ideally you will have experience traveling away from home, maybe even solo, so you can fully enjoy your trip.

who can go?

At this time our families are looking for solo candidates without children of their own and without spouses. In efforts to integrate you into their routines, schedule, and provide you accommodations, it is easiest to do so with just one person.

What if I have issues with my family after arriving?

We give all Au Pairs that are accepted to the program an opportunity to interview and meet their host family. This should give you a chance to clarify expectations and get to know them. If there are issues with either party being unkind or disrespectful the Au Pair will be redirected to another family or sent home. However the families we work will are dedicated to giving our travelers a positive experience. Most issues can be resolved with open communication and reviewing expectations. We will be happy to help you resolve and navigate problems that may come up.