The Inside Scoop on All Things Au Pair in America
Interested in learning more about the world’s most experienced, live-in cultural child care program? The best way to learn is by talking to an expert.
Meet Michelle Librandi, a Placement Coordinator here at Au Pair in America. Through a series of questions, she gave us some behind the scenes insight on the program.
Q. 1: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your job as Placement Coordinator?
“I started working at Au Pair in America in October 2011,” Michelle said. “I work with families throughout the application and placement process until their au pair’s arrival.”
Michelle helps host families by walking them through our state-of-the-art portal, advising them on questions to ask while interviewing au pairs, and by making the process smoother overall.
Q. 2: What makes your job so special and rewarding?
“The most rewarding part of my job is when a family calls to thank me for helping them find such a great au pair,” Michelle said.
She mentioned that it’s very touching when they tell her how much their children adore their au pair, and how they’re sad to see her leave.
“It’s always so nice to hear that I helped a family have such a great experience and that, even though they are sad to see their au pair leave, they’re happy to know I will help them find their next au pair.”
Q. 3: What advice can you offer host families to ensure a positive year?
“Really get to know each other during the interviewing process and before the arrival,” Michelle explained. “Then, once the au pair arrives, I feel that this makes the transition period much smoother.”
Michelle also suggests that host families welcome their au pair in as a family member from the start. Inviting her to participate in family activities and meals, for example, will help make the hosting year a successful and incredible experience.
Q. 4: There are so many Au Pair in America “success stories.” Can you tell us a favorite or two?
“I had one family call me after returning from a vacation in Germany where they visited 8 of their former au pairs,” Michelle reflected. “They told me about all of the fun and exciting things they did while visiting, and that each of their au pairs had become friends as well.”
Michelle also shared a second, similar story that shows how au pair relationships can be long-lasting, despite the long-distance.
“Another family called me after meeting with each of their French au pairs while on vacation. They mentioned that these au pairs have become part of their family – and that they now travel to France each year [to visit].”
To learn more about hosting an au pair from an expert like Michelle, email Au Pair in America at aupair.info@aifs.com or schedule a phone consultation today.
