Au pairs from Au Pair in America help foster cultural exchange and understanding not only within their own host family, but also in their local communities. As cultural ambassadors representing nearly 60 countries around the globe, au pairs play a vital role in teaching Americans, particularly children, the value and importance of cross-cultural understanding. Luana, a Brazilian au pair currently residing with a family in Illinois, recently shared her country’s culture with her host child’s classmates. Bonding over Brazilian sports, holidays, and beaches, she made a great impression in her captivated audience.
Brazilian au pair Luana reflects on sharing her culture with a classroom of American children:
“As I explained a few points about our cities, parties, and costumes, I showed them pictures of all the places and events. They were amazed seeing all the people wearing costumes on Carnival, they related to our passion for soccer, and they loved the pictures of the beaches. I also talked about the Amazon, and one of the kids asked me if it was the Amazon where you can buy stuff – it was so funny!
They also watched a music video illustrating a nice Brazilian song called ‘Aquarela.’ It is about imagination and creating a happy life. After I read the translation to them, they were quite entertained.
I taught them a few words in Portuguese, so before saying ‘tchau’ (bye), we took a picture together saying ‘oi’ (hi) and ‘Brazil.’
It made me very happy to be able to share all this culture information with the kids and to help them to be more aware of the world around them. I might prepare another activity and come back before the end of this school year. Thank you for the opportunity to develop this project!”
Thanks to Luana for getting involved in her local community and playing an important role these children’s cross-cultural education.
Is your family interested in a first-hand cultural experience with an motivated, engaging au pair like Luana? Learn more about Au Pair in America and the cultural benefits of hosting an au pair!
