How to bond with Host Kids

As an Au Pair bonding with your host kids is one of the most rewarding parts of being an Au Pair. It can make everything from discipline to daily routines smoother. Here's how to build a strong connecting with host kids.

1. Show genuine interest

Take the time to find out what your host kids like and dislike. Pay close attention to their personalities and try to get to know them. As them about their favorite things like:

• Animals
• Cartoons
• Hobbies
• Friends
• School

2. Play with them

The easiest way to build a bond is to play with your host kids, especially younger kids. Let them lead you and get silly with them. Here's some things to do together:

• Games or sports
• Pretend play (tea parties, superheroes, dolls,etc.)
• Crafts (coloring, drawing, etc)
• Building things with legos or blocks

3. Share traditions or make new ones

Share some daily traditions from your childhood or make new traditions to their daily routines.

• Special handshake
• Storytime before bed
• Daily dance party
• Baking together

4. Celebrate them

Show them praise when they achieve something at school or win a sports game. Celebrate their birthday and holidays together.

5. Include them in daily tasks

Turn everyday tasks in to a game and bonding time.

• Have them help with meal prep
• Turn cleanup in to a game or race
• Walk with them to and from school and talk to them about your day

6. Be patient but consistent

Some kids may need more time to get used to a new person in their home but don't give up. Stay kind, calm, and consistent and trust can build with time.

7. Respect their space and emotions

Let them have their alone time or quiet time when they need it. Take their feelings seriously and help them get through them.