In this interview, the team at Au Pair in America reflects on the organisation’s origins, its founder’s vision, and the values that continue to guide its mission today.
1. Can you tell us a bit more about Au Pair in America and what inspired the founder(s) to focus on au pair programmes and cultural exchange?
Au Pair in America was launched in 1986 by Sir Cyril Taylor, founder of the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS), as the very first U.S. government-designated au pair programme. Sir Cyril was a passionate advocate for international education and believed that cultural exchange was one of the most powerful ways to promote understanding between nations. His vision was to give young people the chance to live with American families, experience daily life in the U.S. and continue their education while providing trusted childcare. Nearly four decades later, that same mission continues to inspire Au Pair in America – helping thousands of young adults each year grow in confidence, broaden their worldviews, and create meaningful cultural connections.
2. What makes your programmes unique in helping young people combine travel, education, and personal development?
Our programmes go far beyond childcare – they’re about growth, confidence and connection. Each au pair lives with a host family for a minimum of a year, caring for children while completing part time study with accredited U.S. colleges and exploring the country during their free time. Participants gain independence, improve their English and develop global awareness all while forming lasting friendships and professional networks. What makes Au Pair in America truly unique is our comprehensive support structure – from local counsellors and 24/7 assistance to carefully designed orientation and training. Ensuring each participant can thrive personally and professionally.
3. How do you ensure that both au pairs and host families have a safe, supportive, and rewarding experience?
At Au Pair in America, safety and support are at the heart of everything we do. As a U.S. Department of State designated sponsor, we oversee every stage of the programme. From screening and matching to ongoing wellbeing and safety. Au pairs and host families are carefully vetted, with comprehensive training, visa support, and pre-departure preparation provided. Each au pair is supported by a dedicated local counsellor who offers guidance, regular check-ins and social events throughout the year. The experience is deeply rewarding. Au pairs gain confidence, independence and cultural insight, while families enjoy flexible childcare and the joy of cultural immersion. With 24/7 support from our U.S. team, everyone can feel safe, supported, and ready to make the most of this life-changing experience.
4. What trends are you seeing in the au pair and cultural exchange industry right now?
We’re seeing a strong resurgence of interest in cultural exchange following the pandemic, particularly among young people eager for meaningful travel that combines purpose with adventure. There’s also growing recognition among families that cultural diversity enriches children’s lives in profound ways – from language exposure to global awareness. Another emerging trend is the emphasis on soft skills – adaptability, empathy, communication – which au pair experiences uniquely cultivate and which are increasingly valued in education and careers.
5. What excites you most about partnering with Quality English, and how do you see this collaboration benefiting Au Pair in America and their students?
We’re thrilled to partner with Quality English because we share a common commitment to excellence, community and cross-cultural learning. QE’s network of trusted language schools represents exactly the kind of quality and integrity we value in our own programmes. Together, we can introduce more young people to the life-changing opportunities of cultural exchange – helping them improve their English, gain independence and build confidence in a safe and supportive environment. It’s a natural partnership between two organisations that believe in the transformative power of international experience.
6. Can you share a memorable success story or experience that captures the spirit of your Au Pair in America programmes?
One of the most heart-warming signs of our programme’s impact is seeing former au pairs encourage their own children (and sometimes even grandchildren) to take part. We now have several families with three generations of au pairs: a grandmother who joined in the early years of the programme, her daughter who followed in her footsteps and now a granddaughter preparing for her own adventure.
To us, that continuity speaks volumes. When former participants trust us with their next generation, it reinforces how meaningful and transformative the Au Pair in America journey truly is. Many still stay in touch with their host families decades later, proving that the bonds and lessons from this experience last a lifetime.
