Au Pair of the Year Contest 2026
Every year, Au Pair International invites host families to celebrate the incredible impact their au pair has made by nominating them for our prestigious Au Pair of the Year Contest! This is your chance to highlight how your au pair has gone above and beyond, not only in caring for your children but in embracing cultural exchange and becoming an irreplaceable part of your family.
As part of this exciting journey, two exceptional nominees will also be selected to represent us in the National IAPA Au Pair of the Year Contest, competing against the very best au pairs from around the globe!
What Makes an Au Pair of the Year?
We’re looking for role models—participants who exemplify the very best of the au pair experience. Someone who cares deeply for their host children, immerses themselves in American culture, and fully integrates into their host family. They’re not just caregivers; they’re ambassadors of cultural exchange and shining examples for future au pairs.
Au Pair of the Year Hall of Fame
Over the years, we’ve been lucky to sponsor some truly extraordinary au pairs. Take a look at our Hall of Fame to meet past winners and discover why API au pairs are simply the best!
2026 Contest Details and Submission
Ready to nominate your au pair for 2026? This is the perfect way to show your appreciation for their dedication, love, and the unforgettable role they’ve played in your family’s life.
Submission Requirements
We want to hear your story! Tell us why your au pair stands out—not just as an exceptional caregiver but as a true cultural ambassador. The Au Pair of the Year isn’t just about amazing childcare—it’s about someone who has embraced the spirit of cultural exchange and become a cherished member of your family.
We’re looking for submissions that highlight your au pair’s dedication, their bond with your children, and the way they’ve embraced life in the U.S. and your family’s culture. Nominations should recognize au pairs who have made meaningful contributions both at home and in the community.
To enter, nominating host families must submit the following:
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A creative video (.mp4 or .mov, less than 3MB) on the topics below.
- Important: Make sure any music used in the video is free from copyright restrictions. Videos containing copyrighted music may not be accepted.
- Language: We welcome video submissions in any language, but please include English subtitles to assist with judging.
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As an alternative to a video nomination, host families or au pairs may submit a written essay of at least 500 words addressing the topics below.
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Photos of the au pair experiencing family life and American culture.
Topics to address in your video or essay:
- How did the au pair become part of your family and adapt to American life?
- What challenges did the au pair face while being away from their home country, and how did they overcome them?
- What steps has the au pair taken to immerse themselves in American culture?
- How is the au pair making the most of their time in the program?
- Most importantly, how has the au pair made a lasting impact on your family’s life?
International Au Pair Association (IAPA) Contest Submission
The excitement doesn’t stop with Au Pair International! Select nominees from our Au Pair of the Year Contest will have the incredible opportunity to be submitted to the prestigious IAPA Au Pair of the Year Contest, a global platform celebrating the best au pairs worldwide.
At Au Pair International’s discretion, two outstanding candidates will be chosen to represent us in the IAPA competition, where their stories will be judged alongside entries from agencies around the world.
Here’s what happens next:
- Submitted videos will be reviewed by a panel of expert judges appointed by the International Au Pair Association. For fairness, the names of the au pairs and the agencies will remain anonymous during the judging process.
- Host family videos will be rated, with three finalists selected from all agency submissions globally.
- All submitted materials will become the property of the IAPA, and they reserve the right to edit and publish the content.
What’s at stake?
The winning au pair will enjoy an unforgettable experience, including all-expenses-paid attendance at the 2026 IAPA Annual Conference, where they’ll be celebrated in person with a special prize and commemorative award! Should in-person attendance not be possible due to COVID-19 restrictions, the award ceremony will take place online.
Please note: You may be asked to verify the details of your video submission to ensure your au pair’s eligibility for the award. The winning au pair will be notified directly by the International Au Pair Association.