Au Pair Host Family Checklist for Canada

Prepare your home, childcare role, employment agreement and first week with a practical checklist for Canadian host families.

The role

Children’s ages, care needs and normal weekly timetable.
Exact childcare tasks and any agreed child-related housework.
Paid hours, breaks, evening work and backup care.
Driving expectations, vehicle access and insurance arrangements.

The home

A private bedroom and clear use of shared spaces.
Meals, laundry, internet and transport arrangements.
Privacy, guests and off-duty time discussed respectfully.
A plan if either side needs to end the living arrangement.

The employment agreement

Gross pay, pay dates, applicable overtime and vacation terms.
Any lawful, documented accommodation deductions.
Permit restrictions checked and employment duration agreed.
Notice and termination terms reviewed against local requirements.

The first week

Share emergency contacts, medical needs, school permissions and safety rules. Introduce the neighbourhood and transport options. Schedule a calm check-in after the first few days and make it easy to raise concerns.