Find an au pair in New Jersey 

Before your au pair arrives, it’s important to prepare a welcoming, comfortable space. Their bedroom should be clean and include a bed, dresser or closet, and a table or desk with a chair. Cozy touches like soft lighting and fresh bedding can also make a big difference.

Some host families from New Jersey also give their au pairs a welcome basket with snacks, local souvenirs, or even a framed photo from their profile upon arrival. Providing a copy of your House Rules document is also helpful for getting them settled.

Remember, thoughtful preparation helps your au pair feel like part of the family from day one.

Au pairs can care for children aged 3 months and older independently, and they may assist parents in caring for newborns under 3 months.

In addition to providing consistent live-in childcare, au pairs placed through Cultural Care Au Pair in New Jersey can help with tasks related to the children—like preparing meals, doing laundry, tidying rooms and play spaces, and driving to school or activities. For many host families from New Jersey, au pair placements also help with homework and bedtime routines, making everyday life smoother for busy parents.

An au pair’s working hours are regulated by the U.S. Department of State—limited to a maximum of 45 hours per week and 10 hours per day. Within those guidelines, host families have the flexibility to create a schedule that works best for their lifestyle. This structured flexibility is one reason so many families choose live-in childcare through our trusted au pair agency in New Jersey.

Yes, most au pairs arrive in the U.S. with an International Driver’s Permit, which allows them to drive in New Jersey and other states. However, we strongly recommend they apply for a New Jersey driver’s license soon after arrival.

Why it matters:

1. Insurance – Host families must add their au pair to their car insurance policy in the au pair will be driving their vehicle(s). A New Jersey license can make that easier and is required by some providers.

2. Familiarity with New Jersey laws – Obtaining a New Jersey license helps your au pair become more knowledgeable about important state traffic laws, increasing their confidence while driving in your area.

3. Another form of ID – Their New Jersey driver's license can also serve as a form of identification throughout their time in the U.S.

To obtain their New Jersey driver’s license, your au pair will need to follow the standard licensing procedures, which you can find online.

Creating a successful cultural exchange starts with clear, consistent communication. Set expectations early, offer feedback, and involve your au pair in family routines. Building mutual trust helps everyone feel comfortable and supported.

Beyond communication, make an effort to include your au pair in the meaningful moments and the everyday rhythms of your family life. New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities to bond—explore the Liberty Science Center, enjoy a beach day at the Jersey Shore, or visit the Adventure Aquarium. By sharing local traditions and showing interest in your au pair’s culture, you’ll create a meaningful and memorable experience for both sides.

Au pairs are entitled to two full weeks (14 days) of paid vacation during their program year. While these weeks can be taken simultaneously, it's more common to split them up. We recommend that au pairs take one week within the first six months and the second week during the second half of the year.

Additionally, au pairs must receive at least one and a half consecutive days off per week, and one full weekend (Friday night through Monday morning) off each month.

Vacation planning should be a collaborative effort between the au pair and host family. Start the conversation early to avoid scheduling conflicts. We believe that it's important to find the right balance between a sustainable childcare routine and exploring everything the au pair program in New Jersey has to offer!

If you’ve welcomed an au pair in New Jersey, they’ll have the opportunity to extend their stay in the U.S. for an additional 6, 9, or 12 months—as long as they are in good standing and have completed their education requirement (6 credits or 72 hours at an accredited institution) at least 35 days before their initial year ends. Au pairs can choose to extend with their current host family or match with a new one—sometimes in a different part of the country—to continue their live-in childcare and cultural exchange experience from a new perspective.

When it’s time for your au pair to return home—or if they choose to extend with another family—saying goodbye can be emotional. They’ve likely become a cherished part of your household. While farewells are never easy, many families stay in touch and even make plans to reconnect with their au pairs in the future. A small farewell celebration or thoughtful token of appreciation is a meaningful way to honor their time with your family.