The official first day of fall is right around the corner! As cooler temperatures begin to sweep much of the U.S., it’s a great time to introduce your au pair to some of your family’s beloved seasonal traditions, and to learn more about your au pair’s favorite autumn activities as well. Your family will love creating new traditions together and sharing your American culture with your au pair, while also celebrating international customs from your au pair’s home country.
Need some inspiration? Here are 5 fall family activities to get you started!
1. Admire Autumn Colors on a Nature Walk or Scenic Drive
Depending on which country or region of the world you au pair is from, the changing of the seasons and the beautiful colors of fall that we’re used to in the U.S. might be unfamiliar to your au pair. Explore your neighborhood on foot and let your children point out the colors they see. Make sure to crunch some leaves, or jump into a leaf pile if you find (or make) one! You could also take your family and au pair on a local scenic drive to admire the foliage. Don’t forget to collect a few bright leaves to use for craft activities at home, such as leaf painting.
2. Go Apple-Picking
Fall is the season for apples, and orchards around the country are open for fruit-picking! Your children and au pair will love loading up their baskets with fresh-picked apples and enjoying some of the other traditional fall activities that are often available—hay rides, corn mazes, country music, pony rides, etc.
3. Prepare a Fall Foods Night
What can you do with all those apples you just picked? Make apple pie, of course, and other traditional fall treats to share with your au pair! Enjoy a night of fall-inspired favorites, such as a hearty squash soup, apple crisp, pumpkin pie, and spiced apple cider. Ask your au pair to share traditional seasonal recipes from her home country, and encourage her to prepare a dish or two as well—with your children’s help, of course! Your family will have a fun fall feast to remember.
4. Light a Fire
Crisp fall weather calls for the cozy warmth of a fire! Light one in your fireplace and have a family game night, or make a bonfire outside. Look for local bonfire events in your neighborhood and bring your whole family! Your au pair will enjoy meeting members of the local community and experiencing this fun cultural tradition.
5. Start Preparing for Halloween!
This spooky holiday is sure to be a favorite for your children and au pair to celebrate together, and there are so many ways for your family to share American traditions with your au pair! Start brainstorming costume ideas, and pick up supplies if your au pair and children want to get crafty and make their own. Explain your family’s Halloween traditions to your au pair and teach her about Trick-or-Treating, including safety rules. Look for neighborhood Halloween events, such as Trunk-or-Treats and haunted houses, that might be of interest for your family. Your au pair can help your kids carve or paint Jack-o’-lanterns, and decorate the house or yard. Encourage your au pair to get creative!
We hope that your family had a wonderful summer and are looking forward to all the fall family activities that await in the coming weeks. By introducing your au pair to your family’s favorite autumn traditions, you’ll experience them from a new perspective and rediscover the magic of this time of year. Enjoy every moment!
Is your family interested in sharing your culture with an international au pair? Learn more about Au Pair in America!
