When you are getting into looking for host families for your Au pair, you will probably end up having at least one video call with them.
I would definitely recommend that to get to know them better, and it is easier to ask your questions like that.
And you can already find out if you get along well together and can have a small look how they are treating each other.

In that conversation, you should ask all your questions about your time there and can have some small talk to keep the call casual, so it doesn’t feel like a formal interview.

I collected some questions I asked and find important to know before going and working in a family.

1. How many kids do you have to care of?

You might already know about the gender and age of the kids, and if not, it is the perfect time to ask.
Sometimes the parents want you to concentrate on the younger kid when taking care of them, so that is what you want to ask.

2. What are your daily tasks?

Do they want you to get the kids ready in the morning?
Will you do the school drop-offs?
What chores do they want you to do in the household?

3. What does a normal week look like?

What after school activities do the kids do?

4. What are the kids school times?

When does school start and end for the kids, and will you be free when they are at school?

5. When is the kids’ bedtime?

6. How would they describe their kids personalities?

That doesn’t have to be in depth.
It is just great to know beforehand if one kid is generally shy and another pretty loud.

7. Do they have any pets?

Is it your job to walk or feed them?

8. What are the parents jobs?

What are their working times?
Do they work from home?

9. What are activities they do as a family?

What do they do on the weekends and are you invited to join in those activities?

10. Did they already plan any vacations while you’re there?

Are you able to join them?
Do you have to buy anything for that, like a ticket, and will you have to pay for that?
Do you have to bring different clothes for that vacation?

11. What does the family usually eat for their meals?

Do they follow any diet?
Would it be fine if you follow a special diet?
Do they want you to cook for them?

12. Does anyone have any allergies?

For when you want to bring them some snacks from your home country, it is great to know what you shouldn’t bring.
I also asked if the kids are allowed candy at all.

13. Do you get an own room and bathroom?

Will you share a bathroom?

14. Are there any shops close by?

How close are shops or bigger shopping centres?
How close are restaurants and bars?

15. Is there public transport close by?

How good is the public transport?

16. Do you have access to a car?

Do you have to use it for your job?
Who will pay for the gas?
When are you able to use the car for yourself?

17. How many days will you get off?

And what days will you get off regularly?
Can you have days off in a row for a short trip?

18. How much will you get paid?

Will you get paid weekly or every fortnight?

19. Are there any rules they want you to follow?

Maybe they have any special house rules or there is a curfew for you at night.

20. Have they had a bad experience with a former Au pair?

This is so you know what they might pay extra attention to, and you know what things you should prevent doing if they have had a bad experience.

These questions are some of the most important ones.

I also asked about banks and mobile plans they use in the area, so I am informed before going there.

This video call is not only a possibility to ask all your questions, but also a great possibility to get to know them personally.
They might also ask you some questions.

Be sure to note down their answers and write down if you have any other questions after the call, and you could schedule for another call to ask those questions.

I am sure you will find a great family and your adventure is coming true.
That’s so exciting!!!