Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Au Pair Roles – 2025

Searching for the perfect au pair to help take care of your children? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you evaluate a potential candidate's skills, experience, and cultural fit. From child care responsibilities to household management abilities, these questions cover all key areas of an au pair's role.

General Questions

• 1. Why are you interested in becoming an au pair?
  A: I have always had a love for working with children and I enjoy learning about different cultures. Becoming an au pair allows me to combine both of these passions while also gaining valuable experience in child care and household management.
• 2. What is your experience with child care?
  A: I have been babysitting since I was a teenager and have experience with children of all ages. I also have younger siblings and have helped care for them since they were born. In addition, I have completed a course on child care and safety.
• 3. How would you handle a difficult or defiant child?
  A: I would first try to understand the root of the behavior by talking to the child and using positive reinforcement. If the behavior continues, I would implement a consequence that is appropriate for their age and the situation.
• 4. What experience do you have with household management?
  A: I am responsible for managing my own household, including cooking, cleaning, and organizing. I also have experience managing a budget and running errands.
• 5. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with your employers?
  A: I believe open and honest communication is key in any relationship. I would calmly approach my employers and express my concerns or feelings, and work together to find a solution that satisfies both parties.

Behavioral Questions

• 6. Tell me about a time when you had to handle an emergency situation with a child.
  A: Last summer, while babysitting, one of the children fell off their bike and was bleeding from their knee. I remained calm, cleaned and bandaged the wound, and comforted the child until their parents arrived.
• 7. How do you prioritize tasks when caring for multiple children?
  A: I prioritize based on urgency and safety. For example, I would tend to a crying infant before helping a tantruming toddler. I also assign tasks to the older children to help lighten the load.
• 8. Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult parent.
  A: While babysitting, a parent became upset with me for not following their child's strict schedule. I calmly explained my reasoning and apologized for any inconvenience. I then adjusted my care to better align with their preferences.
• 9. How do you handle homesickness or separation anxiety from the children?
  A: I try to distract the child with fun activities and maintain a positive attitude. I also encourage the child to keep in contact with their parents through video calls or letters.
• 10. Share a time when you came up with a creative activity for children.
  A: Last winter, I organized a scavenger hunt for the children I was babysitting. I wrote clues related to their favorite things and had them find small prizes at each stop. They had a blast and it kept them entertained for hours.

Situational Questions

• 11. What would you do if a child you were caring for was injured while on a playground?
  A: First, I would assess the severity of the injury and administer first aid if necessary. Then, I would contact the parents and follow their instructions. If the injury is serious, I would contact emergency services.
• 12. If a child accidentally broke a valuable item, how would you handle the situation?
  A: I would calmly address the situation with the child, emphasizing that it was an accident and ensuring they are safe. Then, I would explain the importance of taking responsibility and possibly involving the child in finding a solution, such as helping to pay for a replacement.
• 13. What would you do if a child did not want to eat their dinner?
  A: I would first try to understand the reason for their reluctance, such as if they are full or simply not liking the food. Then, I would offer alternatives within reason, such as a healthier snack later on. If necessary, I would involve the parents for guidance.
• 14. How would you handle a child who refuses to take a nap?
  A: I would try to make the nap time enjoyable by reading a book or singing soothing songs. If the child still refuses, I would offer quiet activities to do in their room while others nap. I would also discuss any concerns with the parents and follow their instructions.
• 15. If a child needs to be disciplined, what is your approach?
  A: I believe in using positive discipline techniques, such as redirection, positive reinforcement, and setting appropriate consequences. I also involve the parents and follow their disciplinary guidelines.

Technical Questions

• 16. Do you have experience with newborns?
  A: Yes, I have experience with newborns both personally and professionally. I am aware of their unique needs and am comfortable providing care such as diaper changes, feedings, and establishing sleep schedules.
• 17. Are you certified in CPR and first aid?
  A: Yes, I am certified in both CPR and first aid, and I make sure to keep my certifications up to date. I am also trained in pediatric first aid.
• 18. How would you handle an allergic reaction in a child?
  A: First, I would assess the severity of the reaction and administer antihistamines if necessary. I would then contact the parents and follow their instructions. If the reaction is serious, I would contact emergency services.
• 19. What do you know about child development and milestones?
  A: I have studied child development and have experience caring for children of different ages. I understand the typical milestones and age-appropriate activities.
• 20. Do you have experience with potty training?
  A: Yes, I have successfully potty trained a toddler in the past. I understand the various methods and am able to be patient and consistent throughout the process.