Author Archives: Andrea McMains

10 tips for getting your host child to listen to you!!

October 11, 2022 – 1:36 pm

My Host child is driving me Crazy! He won’t listen to me and doesn’t do what I ask him to do.

Have you ever said this sentence? Chances are that if you are caring for a host child, you have!! Caring for children can be difficult and challenging for most adults. If we add the cultural difference and language barrier to this situation- wow! Getting your host child to listen can seem overwhelming at times.

First Cry Parenting has a great video to teach you 10 tips that will greatly improve your ability to get your host children to do what you ask. This will make your role as an Au pair easier and help you to feel less stressed. Let your host parents know that you watched the video and then ask your host family for tips on how they manage the kids.

WEEKEND COURSES APPROVED BY APIA

July 24, 2022 – 1:51 pm

2020 Weekend Education Classes

2020 Weekend classes

Important to note:

If the class is remote, Host Families pay for the class and what is included. Au Pairs pay for any transportation, food, & lodging not included in the cost of the class.

There are three main organizations that offer Weekend Classes across the country. You can search these sites to see upcoming offerings across many locations:

Cultural Hi-ways/ Borough of Manhattan Community college.

https://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

They have learning local and learning express options. Classes are focused on history and explorations of locations.

Au Pair Weekend https://www.aupairclasses.org/registration-calendar

“Single” classes earn 36 hours in one weekend. “Double” classes earn 72 hours over 2 weekends. “Combo” classes earn 72 hours in a single long weekend. Classes are focused on history and exploration of locations.

Classroom Au Pair https://classroomaupair.org/

Classes mainly offered in NJ/ NY area and Florida. Classes are focused on a range of topics.

The following listings are organized by location in the country to help au pairs control airline costs. It is listed by Northeast, to South, then West options.

Albany, NY College of St. Rose, at Silver Bay http://silverbayaupaircourse.com/

AP chooses subjects, see course descriptions. Lodging and meals are included in the average cost of $340. Each weekend plus homework, provides an au pair with 3 credits.

Brookville, NY Long Island University http://liu.edu/aupair

Weekend classes focusing on one topic. They offer transport from the train station at a certain times. Please see course descriptions. Average class cost of $285 and is based on receiving up to 3 credits. Lodging and meals are not included but can be purchased for $100.

New York City, NY Cultural Hi-Ways/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

http://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

Learning Across America. Classes meet on three weekend days spread out for several weeks with a break before the travel portion of the class. Class focus and tour locations include Niagara Falls, NYC, Montreal, Amish Country of PA, Boston, & Washington DC. Au Pairs earn either 32 or 40 hours with attendance for all classes & the tour, and completing the homework assignments. Prices range from $279 – $485 depending on number of classes and tour location. Occasional 72 hour NYC/ Washington DC/ New Orleans classes are offered for $639. See site for details.

New York City, NY UCLA Extension https://www.aupairclasses.org/new-york

Performing Arts (Theater/ Broadway, Music) or Visual Arts (Art Architecture, Photography) class offerings. 36 hours per class, Friday -Sunday for $295 + $110 in fees. 72 hours for both classes for $500 +$215 in fees. covers 3 meals during the weekend, admission to museums, shows, and activities; materials; local transportation) No housing included. See website for full details.

White Plains, NY Pace University www.pace.edu/eli/westchester/j-1-au-pair-student

3 course offerings – American Studies through Film, Cross Cultural Communication, American Humor, Tourism. 20 credit hour class: 9-5 pm Sat & Sun for $200. 40 hour credit class: weekend class & research essay requirement for $365. No housing, but free parking.

Purchase, NY SUNY Purchase www.purchase.edu/ell

Explorations in American Life and Language – courses focused on English language in business and culture classes. Weekend options: 20 hours or 40 hours towards your U.S. government education requirement. No housing available, but short-term parking available.

West Harrison, NY Fordham University www.fordham.edu/aupair

Classes focus on Psychology and Marketing presently. Weekend classes with pre- assignment options for 20 hours ($225) or 40 hours ($375) if research paper is also submitted. Free Parking.

New Rochelle, NY Iona College http://www.iona.edu/Student-Life/Student-Experience-Activities/International-Student-Services/ESL-General-Au-Pair-Program.aspx

2 – 3 class offerings that change with each semester. Each class has a 2 or 3 credit option depending on completing a multipage assignment. 2 credit class costs $240, 3 credit course costs $350. Classes run from 9am – 5:45pm each day. Overnight accommodations may be available, see site for details.

Boston, MA Bunker Hill Community College https://www.aupairclasses.org/boston

2 classes offered – Discover Boston and Make a Difference. Receive up to 45 hours for a 3 day course, $295 + $60 in fees. Up to 90 hours for both classes for $500 + $115 in fees, when you sign up for both at the same time (“Double”). No housing provided, see website for full details.

Fairfield, CT Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

http://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

Learning Across America. Classes meet on three weekend days spread out for several weeks with a break before the travel portion of the class. Class focus and tour locations include Niagara Falls, NYC, Montreal, Amish Country of PA, Boston, & Washington DC. Au Pairs earn either 32 or 40 hours with attendance for all classes & the tour and completing the homework assignments. Prices range from $279 – $485 depending on number of classes and tour location.

Stamford, CT Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

http://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

Learning Across America. Classes meet on three weekend days spread out for several weeks with a break before the travel portion of the class. Class focus and tour locations include Niagara Falls, NYC, Montreal, Amish Country of PA, Boston, & Washington DC. Au Pairs earn either 32 or 40 hours with attendance for all classes & the tour and completing the homework assignments. Prices range from $279 – $485 depending on number of classes and tour location.

Jersey City, NJ Hudson County Community College https://classroomaupair.org/

Classes offered include acting, cooking, event planning, English, photography, social media, music, as well as destination offerings in Florida. Pre and Post assignment homework required. 9am – 7pm classes, must attend all hours to get completion certificate. 36 hour/ 3.6 ceu classes from $295 – $345, depending on class. Transit station, street parking, or lot parking available. See site for details.

Morristown, NJ Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

http://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

New Brunswick, NJ Rutger’s University http://www.cpe.rutgers.edu/aupair/

Classes tailored to Au Pairs. Topics include American Food, Childcare topics etc. 8:30-4:30 on Saturday & Sunday. $390 for 3 CEUs, includes materials, breakfast, and lunch. Certificate upon completion. No housing but onsite parking, free shuttle from NJ transit train station. See website for full details.

Philadelphia, PA Peirce College https://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/course/course.aspx?catId=155

Arts and Diversity: A Focus on Philly’s diverse population and art scene with visit to PA Museum of Art and neighborhood murals. $319 for 36 hours. See site for details.

Millersville, PA Millersville University

https://www.millersville.edu/internationalprograms/eli/short-term-english-programs/au-pair-weekend-program.php

Amish Culture studies in Lancaster County Pennsylvania. 36 hours of coursework from classroom discussion, field trip and pre and post work assignments. $350 for tuition, registration, materials, and excursion fees. Housing not available, but main office is open to contact for suggestions. Class runs from Friday at 3pm – 4pm on Sunday.

Massachusetts Bay Community College / East Coast Adventures http://www.massbay.edu/journey/

“Journey through North America” class – class room learning and trip for 3 CEUs.

Montreal, Niagara Falls, Philadelphia, Quebec City & Washington DC. APs responsible for visa/ passport requirements for any travel to Canada. See site for dates & pricing.

Washington, DC Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

http://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

Learning Across America. Au Pairs earn 36 hours or 72 hours. Prices range from $279 – $629 depending on number of classes and tour location. Classes meet at Trinity Washington University. See website for more details.

Washington, DC University of the Virgin Islands www.uviprogram.org

http://reg.abcsignup.com/reg/event_page.aspx?ek=0040-0016-856f3de29a2043ed8c7ded072bb2faf7

American History classes, Exploring DC with a walking tours, Sign Language, Personal/ Career Development, Movie making, Understanding politics etc. Saturday & Sunday for 20 hours/ 2 CEUs for $275. Class occurs at the Smithsonian Museums. See website for details. Additional classes in Maryland.

Washington, DC Virginia International University http ://viu.edu /sels /programs/adult-esl.html#Museum

One day classes at Smithsonian Museums and private are galleries. Classes typically run 10:30am – 3:30 pm. The museum classes are $40/class, and students earn 0.5 CEUs. For new students, there is a one-time administration fee of $20. There is no textbook. See website for details.

Washington, DC George Washington University Http://www.WBLseminar.wordpress.com

Women’s Business Leadership. Focused on leadership, mentorship, professional communication, & goals. Pre- and post-class assignments. 36 hours towards requirement. $360 early registration price / $375 late registration price + $25 materials fee.

Washington, DC University of the District of Columbia Community College www.aupairclasses.org

2 class offerings -Make a difference and Discover DC and the United States. 36 hours for 3-day weekend class $295 + $60 (materials and registration fees). Discount offered for enrolling in multiple classes during registration – 72 hours for $625. Some meals included, no housing available through the school. Full details on website.

Towson, MD Towson University www.towson.edu/elc

Class options focus on Pop culture, English grammar, or the Baltimore area. APs should sign up at least one week before the class as field trips tickets may need to be ordered in advance. 3 credit class, pre- class assignments approximately 16 hours’ worth of homework. No lodging or meals provided. $375 +$25 application fee.

Richmond, VA University of Richmond

Under Language and Culture Studies: http://spcs.richmond.edu/noncredit/language-culture/index.html and Under Cultural Studies: http://spcs.richmond.edu/noncredit/language-culture/culture.html

Under humanities-culture: http://spcs.richmond.edu/noncredit/areas/humanities-culture/cultural-enrichment.html

Please see course descriptions. The average cost of $325 is based on 3 credits. Less expensive, shorter one day opportunities are available for less credits. No lodging available but, website references to local hotels at a special rate.

Chapel Hill, NC University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill www.humanities.unc.edu

“Adventures in Ideas: Weekend Seminars” Lectures and optional meal. Several offerings focusing on Global Urban Life, American Christianity, African American Music, Mapping the Ancient World etc. See website for more details. Tuition by deadline $110 – $125, late registration $125 – $140. Meals $15-20. Discounts for multiple registrations. No housing or transportation available.

Charleston, SC Trident Technical College

http://www.tridenttech.edu/ce/programs/catalog/charleston-history-and-culture.htm

Southern culture, history, language, landmarks. Learning takes place in and out of the classroom. Includes graveyards (ghost stories). Late Friday – Sunday. 30 hours, for $325. Registration includes fees for events, but not food or lodging. Hostel information available on site.

Miami, FL Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)

https://www.learningacrossamerica.net/miami

A focus on multiculturalism in Mimi, focusing on history, street murals and unique neighborhoods. Class takes place from Thursday to Saturday. Pre and post assignments are required. $499 tuition includes 3 night hotel stay and some meals. See site for details.

Miramar, FL Unilatina International College https://www.unilatina.edu/au-pair-cu-seminar/

60 hour class focusing on Public Speaking Skills, personality awareness, strengths and personal improvement, life planning tools, and stress management skills. Pre and post assignments. Class runs Thursday – Sunday, $570 before registration deadline $595 after. Hotel recommendations available. See website for more details.

Orlando FL Hudson County Community College https://classroomaupair.org/walt-disney-world/

The Making of Walt Disney World. Learn the history and about its influence. You will visit educational attractions – Epcot and Magic Kingdom. $495 + 2-day theme park ticket ($237) earns 36 hours. Includes 2 nights in shared room, 4 meals, transportation to attractions. See site for details.

Tampa, FL Hillsborough Community College www.aupairclasses.org

Multiple classes, see website for details. 40 hours for single class costs $599 and 72 hour combo class costs $615 which includes tuition and registration, materials and excursions. Late registration penalty is $50. Discount offered for enrolling in multiple classes during registration. Housing is not included in price of tuition but can be arranged as a convenience. Some meals are covered. Housing cost depends on length of stay and accommodations chosen. See site for details.

Nashville, TN Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

https://www.learningacrossamerica.net/nashville

In this course you’ll explore the events that established both Nashville’s robust live music scene and its influential music industry. Class takes place from Thursday to Saturday. Pre and post assignments are required. $495 tuition includes 3 night hotel stay and admissions to museums and earns 36 education hours. See site for details.

Nashville, TN University of the Virgin Islands http://www.uviprogram.org/

Psychology: The power of Language and Thoughts. This course will focus on control and mastery of emotions, impulses and actions to achieve personal goals through mind mapping and visualization. Successful completion of the course requirements will earn the student 40 hours or 4 CEU’s. $335 course fee for on time registration.

Chicago, IL Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).

http://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/category/category.aspx

Learning Across America. Classes meet on three weekend days spread out for several weeks with a break before the travel portion of the class. Class focus and tour locations include Chicago and New Orleans. Au Pairs earn either 32 or 40 hours with attendance for all classes & the tour, and completing the homework assignments. Prices range from $279 – $459 depending on number of classes and tour location. Classes take place in downtown Chicago at Loyola University. Airfare to/from Chicago is not included in cost of tuition. See website for more details.

Chicago, IL UCLA Extension www.aupairclasses.org

Discover Chicago and Make a Difference class offerings. Earn 36 hours for $355 class, some meals, materials and fees. Discount given for multiple class sign up at registration “Double” classes earn 72 hours for $619. Pre and post assignments required for completion certificate. No lodging available see website for full details.

Chicago, IL Illinois Institute of Technology

https://www.kentlaw.iit.edu/news/2017/new-course-american-legal-system-in-popular-culture

The American Legal System in Popular Culture is a six-credit course offered to students seeking an introduction to the American legal system and how it is portrayed in modern media. The course is targeted at au pairs who are interested in a broad understanding of the nation’s legal system and its role in shaping American culture. $500, 3-day weekend. See site for details, no housing available.

New Orleans, LA Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)

https://www.learningacrossamerica.net/new-orleans

New Orleans is different in so many ways: its history, culture, music and food set it apart from just about any other city in America. Classroom sessions and field trips to some of the sites that reflect all that’s unique about the city including the French Quarter, Garden District and its famous cemeteries is included. Class runs Thursday – Saturday, $469 for 36 hours and includes 3 nights at local hotel and some meals. Some sessions earn 72 hours for $739. See site for details.

New Orleans, LA Tulane University

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Au-Pairs–Spring-Educational-Courses-in-San-Francisco-and-2-Other-Great-Locations-.html?soid=1101507129325&aid=3Ch9D6icIEA#nola

36 hours earned while learning about New Orleans. Class and local transportation pass $289. Class, local transportation pass, accommodations and breakfasts $459. Class costs do not include transportation to New Orleans.

Houston, TX Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) https://www.campusce.net/learningacrossamerica/course/course.aspx?catId=160&fbclid=IwAR2jBDtrO5DjT9pan-wd5yY4AUgDo4pEYITQFHTNYzm_YIgKeSVQyCdLZao

In this class, you will learn about the city’s founding, the way oil has shaped it, and the incredible diversity and culture of the area. Join us to explore the museum district, underground tunnels, famous green spaces, and learn all about The Lone Star State. 36 Hours earned for $309. See website for details

San Antonio, TX UCLA Extension www.aupairclasses.org/san-antonio

History of San Antonio, with focus on the Alamo, Missions, and urban culture with a dude ranch experience. Class runs from Thursday to Sunday, earning 72 hours. $799 includes tuition, course fee, 3 nights lodging, 8 meals, education activities and transportation to airport at departure. See site for full details

Boulder, CO University of Colorado http://iec.colorado.edu/aupairs see “course descriptions”

This intensive weekend course for au pairs focuses on the business of tourism. Participants explore tourist destinations and visit local businesses and attractions for analysis and discussion. As a final project, teams develop a tourism campaign promoting Boulder to people from their home countries. $450 includes tuition, activity fees, Friday dinner, Saturday lunch, Sunday lunch, Saturday bus pass. 36 hours earned which includes pre-and post-assignments. Class is held 6 -9pm Friday, 9-5 Saturday and 9-4 on Sunday. Travel to/from airport and hotel package options available. See site for full details.

Salt Lake City, UT Utah Valley University https://www.aupairclasses.org/salt-lake-city

Make a Difference and Discover Salt Lake City. 72 hours earned over 4 day “Combo” class for $500 tuition and $115 in fees. Housing option available for additional fee – $120 per student for 3 nights in a shared bed or $180 per student for your own bed in a shared room. See website for full details. Some au pairs have complained this class focuses heavily on the Mormon religion that is prevalent in Utah.

San Francisco, CA Cultural HiWays/ Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/San-Francisco-Educational-Course.html?soid=1101507129325&aid=e1eaQOs6D2Y

Learn about the history and culture of San Francisco in the class room and around town. Classes take place at City College of San Francisco. $299 includes course, materials and activity fees. See site for details.

San Francisco, CA University of California https://www.aupairclasses.org/san-francisco

50% class time / 50% city experience via museums etc. Pre- class assignments as well as post class assignments required to receive certificate. 2 courses offered, up to 36 hours each- $349. Discount for registering for multiple classes at the same time earning 72 hours for $619. No housing or meals available through the school. See website for full details.

San Francisco, CA University of the Virgin Islands www.uviprogram.org

Photography class offered periodically. Check site calendar for upcoming classes.

Los Angeles, CA UCLA Extension www.aupairclasses.org

American culture and history with a focus on entertainment and the arts focusing on either performing arts or visual arts. Friday – Sunday 36 hour single class, $405 or 72 hours for Double class (2 weekends) for $705 for class, materials/ activities, & registration fee. No housing provided see website for full details.

Los Angeles, CA University of the Virgin Islands www.uviprogram.org

Sign language course, 4 CEUs. Lodging available that includes a Saturday night hotel stay in the registration fee. See site for more details.

San Diego, CA University of California https://www.aupairclasses.org/san-diego

50% class time / 50% city experience via museums etc. Pre- class assignments as well as post class assignments required to receive certificate. 2 courses offered, up to 36 hours each – $295 for one or both together for Combo class in a single long weekend for $649. This class involves more written assignments than San Francisco class. Housing and meals available for an additional fee. See website for full details.

Big Island, HI UCLA Extension https://www.aupairclasses.org/hawaii

“Explore our Environment” pop up course offering 72 hours over a 6 day course offered in June 2019. $975 to cover tuition, registration, shared accommodations, 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, transportation and entry to sites during field trip, course materials, and supplies. Au Pairs responsible for their own airline flights. See site for complete details.

Avoid Falling Victim to Scammers

July 5, 2022 – 9:00 am

There are always people out there who are looking for ways to trick people out of their money and personal information. There have been several new scams recently, so we are going to explain ways to identify scams and how to protect yourself.

SCAM #1 – A caller says they are a contact tracer and you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and asks you to pay for a test kit.

Contact tracers will not ask you for payment.

What to do? Do not give any payment information to someone who calls you on the phone.

SCAM #2 – Calls asking for your PIN, password, personal information or a payment.

Your bank will not call you and ask you for your PIN number or password. If the caller states that they are the fraud department of your bank- hang up and call the number for your bank directly. They can trick you by already having your social security number or bank account number. HANG UP!
IRS and Social Security Administration will not ask you for payment or personal info over the phone. Government agencies usually handle issues like this by sending a letter.
The number shown on caller ID can be manipulated, don’t take that as a sign that a call is legitimate. It can be exactly the number that the agency has. It isn’t- it’s the scammer using that number to scam you.

What to do? Whenever you are in doubt, hang up and call the bank (or company) directly using a number you already have for them.

SCAM #3 – Email asking you to click a link to verify your personal information or share your password or PIN.

Be very suspicious of emails asking you to click links.
Scammers are very good at creating official-looking emails and webpages.

What to do? Whenever you are in doubt, go directly to the website (not using the link in the email).

SCAM #4 – You see an offer online telling you to send them some money and they will double it or a pop-up ad says that you have won a great prize and just need to give them your information.

When something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

What to do? Do not give your personal information or any money to people you don’t know.

SCAM #5 – You receive a call and you are told to stay on the phone while you go transfer or withdraw money from the bank and if you don’t you will be arrested or your bank account seized.

They are using the idea that this is an urgent situation to make you act quickly without thinking to avoid the consequence they have told you.

What to do? Do not follow their instructions.

Whenever you are in doubt, do not do as the caller or email asks. Check with your host parents or community counselor.

One other note: It is very important to keep your social security number private. There are very few situations where you will need to share this (bank, IRS, motor vehicles). Those are times you are taking an action and need to provide it. There is not a legitimate time where someone would be calling you on the phone or emailing you asking for that number.

Image: Canva.com

January 25, 2022 – 1:49 pm

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW about traveling outside the USA in 2022

Traveling outside of the USA is risky.

The USA has in the past closed the borders between some countries and the USA when a new variant is discovered. If you travel home or to another country and then the USA closes that border, you will not be able to return to the USA to finish out your year. This happened with South Africa over Thanksgiving. The border was closed in one day. There was no time for anyone to return back to the USA. Many Au Pairs could not arrive to start their year and others who had returned home could not come back to their host families. A lot of matches broke.

If you go home and have the virus, you must meet your country’s quarantine requirements before returning. Your host family may not be able to wait for this and might need to enter a rematch to find a new Au Pair. Because a family is required to pay the weekly stipend for these weeks, very few families can hire a temporary nanny while also paying the weekly stipend.

Think carefully about leaving the USA. You could jeopardize your ability to be an Au Pair. If you are going to travel internationally, inform your CC. Your CC will be required to make sure your host family is aware of the risks associated with traveling outside the USA.

No one should return home with less than 4 weeks left on your first-year visa.

No one can travel outside the USA in the second year except those adjacent islands that have an automatic revalidation agreement with the USA, Canada and Mexico.

If are traveling against the advice of APIA- getting your DS2019 form signed takes 3-4 weeks.

Even if you are returning to your home country the rules still apply. You will need your DS signed for travel.

You should have this form filled out and your DS2019 form sent to the office 4-5weeks ahead of any travel. If you need it faster, you will need to pay for expedited postage through UPS to get it to the office and to receive it back.

You must send the original and you cannot re-enter the USA without the DS2019.

You must research if a visitor’s visa is needed to enter the country that you are going into.

Please check the travel checklist for year 1 or 2 for more steps that need to be completed BEFORE you travel outside the USA.

These can be found always be found on our blog site. Here are the links for year 1.

Travel Validation Form

Year 1 International Travel Checklist

Year 2 International Travel Checklist

Automatic Revalidation Checklist

How do you talk about something that is concerning you with your host family?

January 21, 2022 – 3:59 pm

Tips for Communication During Conflict with Your Host Family.

How you approach an issue of concern with your host family will often determine the outcome. A thoughtful, respectful approach will prompt success, but an aggressive, demanding conversation is likely to harm your relationship. American culture is supportive of positive solution-focused communication. Talking about concerns is hard, but well worth the effort.

Talk in person/ face to face: texts and chats can be misunderstood. Our body language helps us to succeed in communication. Respect the family’s privacy. AVOID talking/texting negatively about the family with a neighbor, family friend, or another family relative.
Choose a good time to talk: Ask for a time to talk when the other person can hear you and you will have enough time to get to the resolution. AVOID catching the host parents on their way out of the door or after a long day at work. Wait until you are calm.
Are you doing your best? Before bringing a concern into a conversation with your host parents, think through your role in their family. It may pay off to build your relationship first. Ask yourself: have I demonstrated my value to the family dynamic? Being able to demonstrate through your behavior that you are… trustworthy, safe, use good judgment, prioritize your Au pair schedule, dependable…. will serve to help you in the discussion about your concern.
Plan: Think about what you want to say ahead of time. State clearly about one problem and how it affects you. Do some research with your CC. Ask for information about program rules and norms. Be realistic.
Listen: Give the other person a chance to tell their side of the concern completely. AVOID interrupting to defend yourself. Really try to hear from their perspective. Let the other person know you want to understand from their side, and you would be happy if they could see your perspective too.
Role model that YOU are listening too: You may not agree with the other perspective. Tell the other person you see that your behavior affected them or the importance of what you are now asking for. For example: “I see that when I was 30 minutes late, it made my host child feel scared and it lead you to think that I did not prioritize my au pair role.” State that you are glad that this information is being discussed together and that you are happy that it will make your relationship with the family better. You really want to find a solution and appreciate the feedback.
Give Information but stay on track: AVOID letting the conversation move to a general discussion of your unhappiness. Be specific. If you are saying a lot of different instances for example” when you were late last week …and when you said I cannot take the car… and when the children yelled at me…. and I had to take the dog out too… and then you didn’t ask me to go with you all to get an ice-cream.” it will be hard to single out a solution!
Talk about your perspective: Avoid telling the other person how they are or are not, feeling. This can make them angry or offended. Making them angry is not an effective way to find a solution together. It is ok to talk about how the behavior made you feel. Talk about the most difficult things. If you are not able to get them out in the open during this conversation, no solution can be made. For example: “When you don’t involve me in your plans outside my work schedule, it makes me feel like an employee not really an important part of your family.”
What is the solution? Americans have a saying: “don’t be a part of the problem, be a part of the solution.” How do you see a solution for the concern? Be specific:” I would feel better about my relationship with the family if you did ask me sometimes to go with you. I understand you are not able to ask me every time. I would appreciate occasionally being asked to join in the family fun times”.
Follow-through: The hardest work is over! You have successfully talked through a concern and made it to the end with a solution in place. Agree to set up regular talks that both parties can express a concern and move through the steps you have taken today to make your relationship the best that it can be! Yes, it might feel awkward today, but soon your relationship with the host family will be better than ever!

Au Pair Education Requirement For 2022

December 29, 2021 – 9:53 am

Online Education Options for Au Pairs:

Online classes are a great option because many are self-paced. This means that you can do the work whenever it is convenient for your schedule. There is no class time you are required to log into at a specific time. Many in-person classes will require a Georgia Driver’s license to register. In-person, classes require you to drive the host family car during high traffic times in order to get to the class in time. Most in-person classes are in the evening or on Saturday. In-person classes are expensive and will often cost more than the host family allowance in order to achieve the 72 required hours. Many options for online classes will allow you to audit them for free.

Education:
Your course will be approved if these things are met:
1. Comes from an accredited college, university or technical college approved by the DOS.
2. The college, university, or technical school must be an American school.
3. Starts before the end of March 31, 2022
4. Have a screenshot of the number of hours you will earn.
5. Provide a certificate or a screenshot of the page that shows you have completed the course. The proof of completion must include your name. If you choose not to pay for the certificate, it is possible to AUDIT the course for free. You will need to provide screenshots that prove that you completed the whole course. These must be EMAILED to your community counselor.
6. All classes must be finished by the end of your 11th month….30 days before the end of your year. Please submit all certificates at the time you finish them by emailing them to the counselor at her APIA address. Don’t wait to send all at once.
7. 72 hours or 7.2 CEUs must be achieved in order to extend a term.
8. Au pairs in their extension term must also earn 72 hours for a one-year extension or a 9-month extension. 36 hours or 3.6 CEUs for a 6-month extension.
9. Special 6-month extension requires 36 hours or 3.6 CEUs.
10. The education allowance is available to assist with earning certificates or paying tuition for a class. It is not paid directly to the Au pair. Maximum of 500.00 per year for the first term or a 12 month or 9-month extension. Maximum of 250.00 for a 6-month extension. This allowance is only for education and is paid directly to a college.
ALL CLasses must be from an accredited, USA college or university!

Some classes are grouped together and are called a ” Specialization”. This means that each course within the specialization group must be taken and will give a specific amount of hours. Please count each course’s hours to total up how many you will achieve.

Most Popular Search Mechanisms: NOT all classes found will be approved by the State Department. Check with your counselor BEFORE you sign up!

www.coursera.org

www.edx.org

www.ed2go.com/

https://online-learning.harvard.edu/catalog

Camp Au Pair In America

June 23, 2021 – 11:34 am

Keeping kids busy and active is the key to success for those long summer days!

When kids are out of school for the summer, it doesn’t take long for them to become bored. Boredom leads to sibling squabbles and mischief! Children don’t realize how much they miss the routine and predictability in their daily schedule. One solution is to make fun plans to keep them busy! Make Camp Au Pair!

Have a ready list of easy, fun activities that you can do with your host children. Get prepared for the upcoming week by getting a list of what is needed and asking the host parents for help in purchasing your supplies.
Use your Au Pair In America resources to find activities and ideas. Check your Au Pair portal for “150 Things to Do with Children”. This is jammed with super ideas.

My favorite outside activity is making super planet size bubbles, using a homemade bubble recipe. Ask your host dad to bend wire coat hangers into large circles with a handle. Outside on the driveway, pour the bubble mix into a shallow dish large enough for the circular coat hanger. A clean trash can lid works great. See how large you get can your bubbles to float!

Create your own bubble solution by gently combining 1 cup dish soap, 1 tbsp glycerine and 4 cups water in a large bucket.

Check out Au Pair in America’s Pinterest pages; Summer Fun & Summer Holidays pin boards for even more ideas.

10 fun ideas:
1.Dance-Put on classical music and move like trees or animals!
2.Cook-Freeze juice and make yummy popsicles!
3.Craft-Make a craft out of leftover Popsicle sticks or shells from the beach trip.
4.Make a tent-Use the Kitchen table and a sheet to make a cool place to get out of the sun on a hot day!
5.Dress up-Be Super man or a princess! Have fun pretending.
6. Chalk on the driveway-Endless fun with drawing pictures and hopscotch!
7.Balls-Make up a new game outside with the ball or just toss or kick
8.Read out loud and use funny voices to make all the characters come alive!
9.Bird watch-See how many kinds of birds you can find in your back yard. Look them up on Google to identify what kind of bird it is. Have a bird watch every day to keep track of them 10. Plant a sunflower– Plant seeds in a super, sunny place and water it every day!

Tips For Communicating About Problems With Your Host Family.

June 10, 2021 – 6:53 pm

Tips For Communicating About Problems With Your Host Family.

Talk in person/ face to face: texts and chats can be misunderstood. Our body language helps us to succeed in communication. Respect the family’s privacy. AVOID talking/texting negatively about the family with a neighbor, family friend, or other family relatives.
Choose a good time to talk: Ask for a time to talk when the other person can hear you and you will have enough time to get to the resolution. AVOID catching the host parents on their way out of the door or after a long day at work. Wait until you are calm.
Are you doing your best? Before bringing a concern into a conversation with your host parents, think through your role in their family. It may pay off to build your relationship first. Ask yourself: have I demonstrated my value to the family dynamic? Being able to demonstrate through your behavior that you are… trustworthy, safe, use good judgment, prioritize your Au pair schedule, dependable…. will serve to help you in the discussion about your concern.
Plan: Think about what you want to say ahead of time. State clearly about one problem and how it affects you. Do some research with your CC. Ask for information about program rules and norms. Be realistic.
Listen: Give the other person a chance to tell their side of the concern completely. AVOID interrupting to defend yourself. Really try to hear from their perspective. Let the other person know you want to understand from their side, and you would be happy if they could see your perspective too.
Role model that YOU are listening: You may not agree with the other perspective. Tell the other person you see that your behavior affected them or the importance of what you are now asking for. For example: “I see that when I was 30 minutes late, it made my host child feel scared and it lead you to think that I did not prioritize my au pair role.” State that you are glad that this information is being discussed together and that you are happy that it will make your relationship with the family better. You really want to find a solution and appreciate the feedback.
Give Information but stay on track: AVOID letting the conversation move to a general discussion of your unhappiness. Be specific. If you are saying” when you were late last week …and when you said I cannot take the car… and when the children yelled at me…. and I had to take the dog out too… and then you didn’t ask me to go with you all to get ice cream.” it will be hard to single out a solution!
Talk about your perspective: Avoid telling the other person how they are or are not, making them angry is not an effective way to find a solution together. It is ok to talk about how the behavior made you feel. Talk about the most difficult things. If you are not able to get them out in the open during this conversation, no solution can be made. For example: “When you don’t involve me in your plans outside my work schedule, it makes me feel like an employee not really an important part of your family.”
What is the solution? Americans have a saying: “don’t be a part of the problem, be a part of the solution.” How do you see a solution for the concern? Be specific:” I would feel better about my relationship with the family if you did ask me sometimes to go with you. I understand you are not able to ask me every time. I would appreciate occasionally being asked to join in the family fun times”.
Follow-through: The hardest work is over! You have successfully talked through a concern and made it to the end with a solution in place. Agree to set up regular talks that both parties can express a concern and move through the steps you have taken today to make your relationship the best that it can be!

Understanding your Au Pair Insurance 2020 and 2021 arrivals

May 21, 2021 – 2:58 pm

Understanding your Au Pair Insurance for 2020 and 2021 arrivals

* Depending on your country of origin, you may have some differences in your benefits. This is a summary of the basic plan. Go to your Au pair portal to confirm which insurance plan you have.

Before it becomes an emergency, google where is the closest CVS minute clinic to me! If you do not have a medical condition that is life-threatening, CVS minute clinics and Walgreens stores are great choices for medical care. These clinics do not require an appointment and are open early and late.
Little symptoms can become big emergencies. Don’t risk your Au Pair experience by waiting until you are extremely ill before seeking medical advice.
If you have more than a small medical issue, call your insurance company to discuss your benefits and options before incurring a large medical bill that you will have to pay. (800) 303-8120, prompt 5 or 203-399-5130 or email claimhelp@culturalinsurance.com
Hospital Emergency rooms are for life-threatening conditions only. An additional 500.00 deductible will be charged to you if you do not have a life-threatening emergency. When in doubt go to a CVS minute clinic. You will not have to pay the additional ER deductible if you are directed by a medical professional to go to an ER.
Download your insurance card. Keep your insurance card with you at all times Or, have the mobile app on your phone with myCISI phone app for iphone or android.
You can go into your Au Pair Insurance portal to print out a new card with your host family’s address on it. Make an account and save your password. Or, you can use the mobile app on your phone to do this.
https://www.mycisi.com/CISIPortalWeb/pub/login.aspx?PT=GENr
The basic plan of insurance will have a 50.00 deductible for each sickness or injury. There will be a co-pay amount you will pay for your care and a percentage of the cost of the service. The insurance will determine what is the usual and customary charge for the service you received.
Be prepared by saving up two weeks’ stipend to cover any medical cost.
If you pay for medical care or prescription medicine, you can fill out a claim form and mail it in to get CISI to pay you their portion (once you have met your deductible). A claim form can be found on the mycisi portal.
Use Well RX to lower your prescription cost. https://www.wellrx.com/prescription-discount-card/
Au Pairs do not have dental insurance (with exception of the upgraded medical policy which does have a 500.00 pain relief benefit). Avoid crunching on hard food or candy!!
Read about sports insurance upgrade to determine if this will help you. If you are injured during a sporty activity- the insurance may not cover it. This can be found on your MyCISI portal.
Routine wellness checks and vaccinations are not covered under CISI. Before getting a vaccine, ask if there is a charge to administer the shot and what your cost will be.
Birth Control pills and routine GYN visits are not covered by CISi. Consider your local health department or Planned Parenthood as a good option for these services.

Look BEFORE you LOCK

May 7, 2021 – 3:44 pm

LOOK BEFORE YOU LOCK! Prevent hot car deaths!

Tragically, every year children die in cars.

This can easily happen to caregivers who forget the child is sleeping in the rear seat. It also happens when caregivers intentionally leave a child in a parked car for ” just a second” to run an errand.

In the state of Georgia, it is a crime to leave a child in a parked car or a car with the engine running- even for a second.

A child can die when their body temperature reaches 107 degrees.

This can happen when the temperature is only 70 degrees and the child is left for 15 minutes!! It is much hotter in Georgia.

In 2020, 25 children died of vehicular heatstroke.

In 2018 and 2019, we saw a record number of hot car deaths — 53 children died each year — the most in at least 20 years, according to NoHeatstroke.org.

Some children were accidentally left in the car and others were left for just a small amount of time while the caregiver went into a house or store.

Everyone Can Help Prevent Hot Car Deaths

1. Never leave a child in a vehicle unattended — even if the windows are partially open or the engine is running, and the air conditioning is on.

2. Make it a habit to check your entire vehicle — front and back — before locking the door and walking away. Train yourself to Park, Look, Lock, or always ask yourself, “Where’s Baby?”

3. Place a personal item like a purse or briefcase in the back seat, as another reminder to look before you lock. Write a note or place a stuffed animal in the passenger’s seat to remind you that a child is in the back seat.

4. Store car keys out of a child’s reach and teach children that a vehicle is not a play area.

Everyone — Including Bystanders can prevent this from happening.

Always lock your car doors and trunk, year-round, so children can’t get into unattended vehicles.

Act Fast. Save a Life.

If you see a child alone in a locked car, get them out immediately and call 911. A child in distress due to heat should be removed from the vehicle as quickly as possible and rapidly cooled.

Click this link and watch the video to see what happens when a child is left in a car.

https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/heatstroke

NHTSA.GOV

Prevent Heatstroke Deaths in Cars, Kids Are Vulnerable | NHTSA

A child’s body temperature rises faster than an adult’s. Learn more facts and the steps to take so your child isn’t left in the backseat of a hot car.

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