Top things your Au Pair will need help with

When your Au Pair arrives to the U.S. they will likely be in an unfamiliar environment. It is important to understand that they may need help understanding some things. Here are the top things your Au Pair will need your help with:

Household Expectations and Routines

1. Household rules - Make sure to talk about curfews, screen time, guest policies, quiet hours or other rules right away.
2. Weekly schedules - Go over what a typical day looks like, including school runs, nap times, and meals.
3. Household appliances - Many Au Pairs may not be familiar with some household appliances that are typical in the U.S. You may have to teach them how to use:
   • Dishwasher
   • Washer and Dryer
   • Small appliances like air fryer etc.
4. Driving - You will likely need to take your Au Pair out driving to get them used to your vehicle and driving in your area.

Childcare Guidance

1. Your parenting style and discipline -How do you handle tantrums or negative behavior, screen times, snacks, etc.
2. Food preferences - What foods your kids like and dislike, allergies, routines.
3. Activities and routines - Go over what your kids like to do, how you structure playtime, learning/homework, and rest.

Orientation to your area

1. Routine locations - Your kids' school, activities, favorite places
2. Neighborhood tour - Show them parks, stores, clinics, post office
3. Emergency info - Your emergency contacts, locations of hospital, police

Personal help

1. Phone and sim card set up - Help them get their phone working
2. Bank account - Show them your local bank and help them get an account set up
3. Language help - Offer support with English if needed

Cultural and social adjustment

1. Social norms - Discuss norms around punctuality, personal space, your communication style
2. Social opportunities - Help them connect with other locals, or your family and friends in your area, with other au pairs

It may seem like a lot of work but Au Pairs are eager to learn all they can about U.S. culture and help your family. Helping them with the basics will pay off and help you build a close and trusting relationship with your Au pair.