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Are You Thinking Of Extending Your Au pair Year?

Extension Year Tips

Choosing to extend is a great choice! It does require some planning and thought before you decide. These facts will be helpful in your decision-making process. Call or email your counselor, if you need help making the right choice.

The process begins with the Au Pair and host family receiving an email at the 8th month. The link to extend together will be on the host family portal. Once the host family presses the link to match, the link will appear on the Au Pair portal. If the decision to extend with a different family is made, the Au Pair will hit the link on the Au Pair portal to extend with a different family. The current family will receive an email with a request to give a reference that will appear on the extension application. This reference provides info about how many children and how many hours of childcare is week was provided, and if the Au Pair received a ticket or had an accident while driving.  This link and email cannot arrive earlier than exactly your 8th month.

  • 72 hours of education must be completed at the time of the request to extend.
  • Certificates or documents showing the completed hours must be emailed to the community counselor.
  • Please do not text pictures. Email the completion letter or certificate as a PDF attachment to your CC.
  • All education hours must be completed 30 days before the end of the first term.    The request to extend and all documents will be filed one month before the end of the first year. THIS IS FIRM. THE STATE DEPARTMENT WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY EXTENSION REQUEST IF THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENT HAS NOT BEEN MET.
  • To extend with a different family, the education hours must be finished by the 8th month to ensure enough time to interview and find a new family. The interview process cannot start until proof of education is provided. 
  • The options for extension are for  6, 9 or 12 months.
  • It is more difficult to find a second-year match with a 6 month extension. 
  • Once the extension begins. it is not possible stay longer. An Au Pair who chooses 6 months cannot request to extend for a longer period. 
  • It is possible to leave earlier than the DS end date, If at least one month’s notice is given to the host family and CC. For example, if the extension time was 12 months, but the Au Pair decided to leave at 10 months, the family would need to know at the 9th month, and the Au Pair would receive the free flight home.
  • If at least one month’s notice is not given, The Au Pair would be required to purchase their own flight home.
  • If the second term is not fully completed, the Au Pair is not eligible for a travel month. The Au Pair will be expected to return home at the end of the one-month notice.
  • Vacation time should be completed at the time a request to return home is made.
  • Vacation time can be discussed on a case by case basis with the CC. 
  • Au Pairs who successfully complete the amount of time on the DS designated for the second year are eligible for a travel month. 
  • The travel month will be moved to the end of the second term. The extension term will begin the day after the first year ends.
  • In the second year there are 11 days of vacation for 12 months, and a 9-month extension. For 6 months the vacation is 5.5 days.
  • There is no guarantee that a match will be made for a second term. Many au pairs do not make a match and return home.
  • Au Pairs who request special consideration for the schedule or stipend, or limit the number of children, including to not work on the weekend, may find it more difficult to make a match. 
  • Au Pairs who only want a specific location may find it difficult to make a match. 
  • If the Au Pair experienced a rematch in the first term, It’s a good idea to write about the reason in the extension application.
  • If the Au Pair had an accident or traffic ticket, it is a good idea to write about what happened and to note that full responsibility was taken by the Au Pair to complete this process.
  • Once the Au Pair accepts a match with a second-term family, this decision should be honored. It is not possible to cannot change the mind and choose another family that calls later. Honor the commitment that is made.
  • Deciding to stay with the current family can work well. Sometimes, there are some things that an Au Pair will want to change about their experience. Talk with the host family to see if they are willing to make the changes needed to stay a second term!
  • It is possible to negotiate for a different experience in the second year with the current family. 
  • Many au pairs underestimate the difficulty of getting re-adjusted in a new city. It is starting over in a new place with a new family and new host kids.  They will not have friends. They will not know the way around. The host family will be new and strange at first. The host children will be new. The host kids may not accept the new Au Pair warmly at first.  All the comforts of the current situation will be gone. The Au Pair will be starting over!
  • Staying in the same family and location enables an Au Pair to quickly achieve goals that may have been missed in the first term. It’s possible to take an in-person class or improve English or to travel more. Without the issue of getting acclimated, goals can quickly be addressed.  
  • The second term in a new city can be exciting. There is an opportunity to make new friends, see a new city and learn another way of life here in the USA!
  • The education requirement still applies in the second year. Standard au pairs will have a $250.00 education allowance towards completing 36 hours of education in a 6 month extension.   $500.00 education allowance is given towards a nine and twelve-month extension to achieve least 72 hours of education.
  •  Education requirements are a mandatory Department of State rule. If the education requirement is not made, a completion certificate will not be provided. And, APIA must explain why the Au Pair did not meet this important rule. 
  • The transfer to the new second-term family is on the last day of your contract. You may not join them earlier or later than this date. This is very strictly followed. NO EXCEPTIONS.
  • APIA will pay for the flight to the new host family’s location. Transfers to the airport and the cost of luggage are the responsibility of the Au Pair. 
  • If an Au Pair had the upgraded insurance policy, they must pay the fee to upgrade the policy in their second term. The insurance has to be the same. 
  • The USA driver’s license will need to be renewed after a new DS-2019 form is issued with the extended dates on it. 
  • An Au Pair will need to get the license for the State where the new host lives. The new CC can best explain the process to exchange the driver’s  license for the new State’s license with your new address.
  • The address on the DS must be the place that the Au Pair lives. The new family’s address will not be able to appear on the DS until the Au pair takes residence in the new location. A link will be provided to request a new DS with the updated address on it. 
  • Travel outside the country is not be possible in your second term. Some islands around the USA may be allowed. There is a process that must be completed in order to travel outside the USA in the second term (with or without a host family)
  • 1. Read the travel information about second term travel outside the USA on the APIA website and follow the instructions for a travel signature. A visa may be needed to enter another country. The Passport should be valid for any travel. 
  • 2. Email Fiorella at fciralli@aifs.com, if there are questions about travel in the second term. http://www.aupairinamerica./resources/travel_and_flights/travel_visa.asp#3
  • The actual visa will expire at the end of your one-year term. However, the white paper in the passport ( the DS-2019 form) is the document that gives a legal reason to be in the USA.  A new DS-2019 form will be issued  from the State Department. It is not necessary to return home to renew the visa, This is risky and may prevent an Au pair from re-entering the USA. 
  • Some Au Pairs want to renew their visa, due to the travel plans of their host family. Renewing the visa is risky because the home government may not agree to grant another visa. IN THIS CASE, the Au Pair would not be allowed to return to the USA to finish the first term. The visa must be valid to re-enter. It takes a lot of planning and organization to save vacation days until the end of the term in a plan to return home to get a new visa. This process may take 2-3 weeks or longer in busy travel seasons. An Au Pair would need to return to the USA at least four weeks before their current visa expires. The host family is responsible for paying the Au pair stipend each week, even if   the Au pair goes home on vacation. Because of this, they may not agree to have an absent for several weeks. The Au Pair must also pay for the flight back home.
  • There is a lot to think about before returning home to renew a visa ! Ask your counselor for advice.
  • Ask your counselor for advice before making the important decision to extend the Au Pair term! 

Vacation and Holidays for the Au Pair.

Planning ahead can really make a dream vacation here in the USA possible.  Here are some reminders about program rules regarding holidays and vacations.

Holidays

  • Host families are not required to give au pairs any specific holidays. If a family chooses to give time off, it can be a nice reward for an Au pair!
  • Each host family will make different arrangements for holidays, some au pairs will be off and others will be required to work.
  • Au pairs should not make plans for holidays without checking with their host family first.
  • Start a discussion about which holidays might be good to coordinate a weekend off for a mini-vacation. Google National holidays for the USA.

Vacations

  • An Au pair earns 11 days of paid vacation during her year.
  • Splitting up the 11 days of vacation time into two separate vacations can be useful. Taking 5 days of vacation in the first 6 months- Mon-Fri and using a weekend off for the month will give a 7 day vacation. This can be repeated in the last half of the year. This leaves 1 vacation day to use. This can be coordinated with a holiday and your weekend off for the month for another mini vacation.
  • Vacation time should be mutually agreed upon before it is taken.
  • All vacations should be preplanned (at least 4-12 weeks in advance.) This can allow time to coordinate the au pair’s weekend off for the month and her vacation days.
  • 12 weeks lead time is suggested if An Au Pair is planning on using a lot of vacation days altogether to return home. Taking more than one week away is more complicated for  the host to arrange for another source of childcare. The DS should be signed for travel to return to a home country. All travel should be completed 45 days before the end of the J-1 visa.
  • All au pairs’ friends and/or family visits/vacations should be pre-approved before purchasing flight tickets. Some host families will not be comfortable with guests visiting during work hours. It might be best to coordinate the Au Pair’s vacation with the guests’ plans to visit.
  • If an Au Pair travels with her host family, it should be discussed in advance whether this is the au pair’s vacation or if she is working. A schedule is necessary for work during the host family’s vacation. Off time should be clearly known. Responsibilities for childcare change on a vacation. It’s good to ask how this will look in a different environment.
  • If an au pair travels with the host family to work, the host family must pay for her transportation, lodging, and meals. Her Lodging should ensure her privacy.
  • Meals and activities during time off during the host family’s vacation are the responsibility of the Au Pair ( just like at home).
  • The traveling time for a car ride or air flight would not be counted in the schedule unless the Au Pair is in charge of the children during this time. Au Pairs who work together with a family to ensure that the children are safe and happy during the hectic travel moments are really appreciated!
  • An Au Pair cannot be away from the host family’s primary residence for longer than 3 weeks.
  • Year 2 Au Pairs cannot travel internationally except for Canada, Mexico, and some adjacent Caribbean islands. The specific islands  allowed are listed on the Automatic revalidation checklist below.

Important: If an au pair is traveling outside of the U.S., she must have her DS2019 signed (travel validation) before she departs from the US. Even if the travel is to their home country. This can take up to 4 weeks to process. A visitor’s visa may also be needed for the country you are visiting. The ability to re-enter the USA is up to the border agent. APIA has no control over this decision, even with a travel signature.

More information about international travel may be found with these resources:

Travel Validation Form

Year 1 International Travel Checklist

Year 2 International Travel Checklist

Automatic Revalidation Checklist

Things To Consider If You Plan To Use Your Au Pair Travel Month.

Your j-1 visa allows you to stay within the USA up to 30 days after your APIA contract has ended. This time can be used to visit places that you have not been able to see. The travel month requires careful planning and organization. Coordinating your plans with your host family is important before you make any plans. 

Here are some things to consider:

  • Because your contract has ended, you cannot continue earning your Au Pair stipend with your host family. Saving your stipend money to support yourself and the cost of traveling is important. 
  • Travel month medical insurance must be purchased if you stay more than 3 days. This is a requirement of the State Department. Anyone who stays without proof of medical insurance would be subject to having the J-1 visa travel month status revoked.
  • Travel is limited to WITHIN the USA. Your visa and DS-2019 have expired. If you leave the USA, you would most likely be denied re-entry.
  • If you are hopeful to stay in the host home while traveling or to use it as a base to come back to while traveling in the USA. It’s a good idea to discuss your plans with your host family. Some host families will not be able to accommodate you as they will have another Au pair arriving. The new AP will move into the Au Pair bedroom upon her arrival. In this case, a plan for hotel or hostel accommodations for your travel time should be made. 
  • Your host family might prefer that you not be in the home while training the new AP. It is difficult to train and support the new Au Pair while you are still there. The children will naturally prefer you and this is hard for the new Au Pair. Also, the host family may want to change some rules for the next year. It might be confusing if you are currently living within a different set of rules than the Au Pair will have. 
  • The phone and car that you are using may not be available. These will need to be given to the newly arrived Au Pair. 
  • Your Georgia driving license will expire on the date listed on your DS-2019 form. You will have your international permit and country’s license. If these are no longer valid, it could affect your ability to rent a car and to drive in the USA. 

Coursera can be a great resource for your educational requirements.

In-person classes are the BEST way to achieve your State Department Mandated Educational hours. However, if you cannot find a course that fits your schedule or is affordable, an online class could be helpful. Special consideration can be given in some situations. Talk to your community counselor before registering for any online class.

Tips for using Coursera to obtain your educational requirement

You can take any online course from a USA-accredited college, university or technical school.

Google, Academy of Sports Medicine, IBM and Meta are examples of companies and institutions that are NOT accredited in the University system and cannot be used for your educational requirements. Many private companies will call themselves a ” college”. Please verify with your LCC that the school is accredited in the University system and accepted by the State Dept.

If you are interested in a Coursera course you can search through the options of the subject you are interested in. Each course will offer a different number of hours.

You must obtain 72 hours. Scroll to see the hours the class provides. Coursera charges a small fee per month OR for the “free” classes the certificate will cost approximately 49.00.

A certificate is necessary. Make an account with Coursera to have access to your certificate.

This should be emailed as a PDF to your LCC. Please don’t include in the body of the email. No texts will be accepted.

Most Au Pair will finish the course much quicker than is designated by Coursera. The Coursera classes are self-paced. This means that you can take them any time you have time.

You must get 72 hours.

You can only take one online course per semester. If the course doesn’t offer all 72 hours, you will need to wait to take another course in the next semester after 3 months. There is a spring, summer, fall, and winter semester. If you submit two certificates dated in the same semester, only one can be used!!!!!!

Your education must be finished 6 weeks before your term ends.

BE CAREFUL TO LOOK at the name of the college. Not all on Coursera are from USA colleges. BEFORE starting a class—send the link to your LCC to confirm it will meet the requirements.

Personal Enrichment:

Don’t know what career you want to have? 67 hours https://www.coursera.org/specializations/career-discovery

Want to be more successful?

70 hours https://www.coursera.org/specializations/professional-success-skills

Marketing:

Social Media Marketing: 40 hours https://www.coursera.org/specializations/social-media-marketing

160 hours Digital Marketing: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/digital-marketing?

Business:

Business Foundations Specialization 80 hours https://www.coursera.org/specializations/wharton-business-foundations

120 hours Innovation: From Creativity to Entrepreneurship Specialization

https://www.coursera.org/specializations/innovation-creativity-entrepreneurship

Human Resources 80 hours https://www.coursera.org/specializations/human-resource-management

Spanish:

80 hours https://www.coursera.org/specializations/learn-spanish

Psychology:

82 hours Foundations of Positive Psychology https://www.coursera.org/specializations/positivepsychology?

37 hours Social Psychology https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-psychology

40 hours Abnormal Psychology https://www.coursera.org/specializations/abnormal-psychology

English Language:

160 hours Teaching English to non-English speakers. https://www.coursera.org/professional-certificates/arizona-state-university-tesol

60 hours Introduction to Teaching English Learners Specialization https://www.coursera.org/specializations/intro-to-teaching-english-learners

80 hours Advanced Grammar and Punctuation https://www.coursera.org/specializations/advanced-grammar-punctuation

120 hours Business English Communication Skills https://www.coursera.org/specializations/english-for-business?

Health and Nutrition:

40 hours Food Sustainability and Mindful Eating. https://www.coursera.org/specializations/food-sustainability-mindful-eating-healthy-cooking

80 hours Heathy Sustainable food and products. https://www.coursera.org/specializations/healthy-sustainable-foods-products

70 hours Essentials of Global Health. https://www.coursera.org/learn/essentials-global-health

20 hours Feeding the World https://www.coursera.org/learn/feedingtheworld

53 hours Engineering Health intro to Yoga and physiology https://www.coursera.org/learn/engineering-health-yoga-physiology?

80 hours Integrative Health and Medicine. https://www.coursera.org/specializations/integrative-health-and-medicine

Music 40 hours each course. Can only take one per semester!! https://www.coursera.org/specializations/songwriting#courses https://www.coursera.org/specializations/music-business https://www.coursera.org/specializations/musicianship-specialization

Social Security Card Information for AuPairs

Social Security Card Information for Au Pairs

Wait 7-10 days before going to the SS office!!!

The SS website states that an international visitor can visit the SS office after only 3 days. However, because currently there are delays in the federal verification process, waiting 7- 10 days is recommended to avoid a delay at the federal level to specifically verify your documents when they have not been entered into the USA system yet. A host parent will need to call the SS office for an appointment.  It’s best to schedule the appointment 7-10 business days after the arrival date.  The appointment will be in person at your closest office – Norcross, Kennesaw or Gainsville.

An Au Pair must wait 7-10 Business days after entry to the USA before they can request an SS# appointment. You must print out your I-94 card before you can go. Refer to the resource page for “How to Print your I-94 card”.

  Please be sure to bring all of your paperwork with you to the Social Security Office.  See list below.  All documents must be presented in person.  Before leaving the desk, check your name and address for errors. If you leave, you must make another appointment to correct any errors. 

These documents are needed: 

  • Passport
  • I-94 Card ( Must print your document. See instructions- top of page).
  • SEVIS DS-2019
  • Participation letter from APIA. This can be downloaded from your APIA Au Pair. This will print with the current date on it. The one you have does not have a current date on it.
  • Print the SS application. This is form SS-5. https://www.ssa.gov/forms/
  1. Kennesaw Office:  Address: 200 Chastain Center Blvd Suite 250 Kennesaw, GA 30144 Phone- Phone: 866-964-4690 office M-F 9:00 to 3:30
  2. Marietta office:   This office is not available for Au Pairs. This office does not accept in-person visits.
  3. Norcross office  4365 Shackleford Road Norcross, GA 30093. 1-877-803-6320. Office hours are 9:00-3:30 M-F.
  4. Gainsville Office-
    2565 Thompson Bridge Rd #210, Gainesville, GA 30501

    Phone: 866-331-2309. Office hours 9-3:30pm M-F

It is best to plan on arriving at the Social Security office early before the appointment time. If you are late, they will cancel the appointment. The office will be closed on any federal holiday. Social Security Office Locator: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp

The Social Security Administration will mail the card. It generally takes 7-10 days. The Au pair will receive a letter stating that an SS# has been requested. This can be used to secure a bank account, but many banks will require the actual SS card. Save all mailed documentation from the SS office. This will be used to prove residency for the driving license.

Welcome to Camp Au Pair in America!

When kids are out of school for the summer, it doesn’t take long for them to become bored and sometimes that leads to sibling squabbles and mischief. Even though they don’t realize it, they are usually missing routine and predictability in their daily schedule. One solution is to make fun plans to keep them busy! 

Each week this summer we will share a different Camp Au Pair theme. These weekly themes are designed to give you ideas to keep your host kids occupied and engaged all summer long. They will also be learning. (But shhhh, don’t tell them that part.) Check back each Friday, for the next week’s theme. This gives you a chance to make plans and gather materials for the next week. For each theme there will be crafts, games, snacks and activities. You can just use these ideas or add your own and customize the themes to fit the ages and interests of your host children.

Here are the themes you can look forward to:

  • Nature Exploration
  • Art Experiences
  • Under the Sea
  • Science (STEM)
  • Bugs & Butterflies
  • Cars and Trucks
  • Backyard Safari
  • Dinosaurs
  • Explore the World
  • Outer Space
  • Pirate Adventures
  • Princesses & Knights

Check out Summer Fun & Summer Holidays pin boards for even more ideas.

If you get some great pictures doing these activities with your host kids, please send those to your community counselor. We love to share your accomplishments and inspire other au pairs!

Let’s make this an amazing summer!

Back to school driving tips for Au Pairs!

The summer vacation is over! Every August nearly 55 million children across the United States return to school. Many children will be on foot or using their bikes to either get to the bus stop or school grounds.

School days bring heavy road congestion with buses stopping to pick up students, children on bikes that are rushing to get to school before the tardy bell rings, and stressed out parents dropping kids off on their way work. Drivers must slow down and pay attention when children are present.  The afternoon hours are particularly the most dangerous. Over the last 10 years, nearly one in four child pedestrian fatalities occurred between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

As children head back to school, here are some helpful reminders to drivers:

Slow Down and Obey School Zone Speed Limits 
Speed limits in school zones are reduced for a reason. A pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling at 25 mph is nearly two-thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling just 10 mph faster. Fines for speeding in a school zone can be as high as $400.00

“No Passing”
This is a standard law, noted clearly in school zones, yet drivers regularly ignore it. Passing is not permitted in the 15 mph zone, no matter how slow another vehicle may be traveling. Passing doesn’t mean going around the vehicle. No passing means that your bumper cannot pass any other car’s bumper going in the same direction.  Another important reminder, never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.

Flashing Lights
In a school zone when there are flashing lights, drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection.

Be Diligent
Watch for kids crossing the streets. Children are quick, often unpredictable, tend to ignore hazards and take risks. A student crossing the road unexpectedly or emerging suddenly between two parked cars could be tragic. Eliminating distractions such as talking on your cell phone, eating, etc. is also strongly encouraged. Never text and drive and follow all laws pertaining to school buses. Research shows that taking your eyes off the road for two seconds doubles your chances of crashing.

Stop
Come to a complete stop. Research shows that more than one-third of drivers roll through stop signs in neighborhoods and school zones. Check carefully for children on sidewalks and in crosswalks before proceeding. Always stop for a school crossing guard holding up a stop sign.

Crosswalks
Never block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn. Pay special attention as you approach the intersection to avoid this as it forces pedestrians to go around you and this could place them in the path of moving traffic.

Reversing Concerns
Every vehicle has blind spots and children are small and may dart unexpectantly. Double-check for children walking on the sidewalk. In your own driveway, look all around your vehicle before backing up. Always back up slowly and teach your children to never play in, under or around vehicles. Also, discuss with them where to stand when a vehicle is reversing.

Watch for Bicycles
Young children on bikes can be unsteady, inexperienced, and most definitely unpredictable. Slow down and allow at least three feet of passing distance between your vehicle and a bicyclist. If your child rides a bicycle to school, require that he or she wear a bicycle helmet on every ride and map out a safe route with details on what to avoid and how to navigate their route.

Bus Safety
According to the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are between the ages 4 to 7 years old, and they’re walking. They are either hit by the bus, or a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. When the school bus has initiated the stop sign, all drivers must stop in both directions. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children and sadly we see news stories regularly of impatient drivers who race by a bus unloading young children. Obeying all road rules is imperative for student safety. It is also costly for a ticket, costing as much as $1000.00 in Georgia for the first offense.

The information posted was obtained at https://theumphx.com/2019/08/05/back-to-school-safety-reminder-drivers-watch-out-for-the-kids/

Drowning is FAST AND SILENT. Four Tips to prevent drowning!

DId you know that drowning is the number 1 cause of accidental death for children under 5 and a leading cause for ages 1-14?
 Drowning is FAST AND SILENT. Drowning happens to all types of families and in all kinds of water- bathtubs, pools, lakes, ponds, rivers, beaches, and even buckets and toilets. The good news is that drowning is PREVENTABLE.
The big four tips for water safety:
1. Never leave children alone in or near the pool or spa, even for a moment; close supervision by a responsible adult is the best way to prevent drowning. Never trust a child who says they will stay away from the pool while you go to the restroom or back to the car…. Take them with you!
2. Whenever children under age 5 are in or around water, an adult – preferably one who knows how to swim should be within arm’s length, providing “touch supervision.”
3. Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as “floaties.” They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children and parents a false sense of security.
4. If a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first.
https://www.colinshope.org/water…/water-safety-quiz/

Sun Safety Tips for Au Pairs from Macroni Kids

summersafety.jpg

 

 

Everyone loves summer, especially children.

But while you’re planning some family fun in the sun, be sure to make safety a top priority. Accidents are the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in the United States, and the summer months bring with them a unique set of risks.

Keep reading for 5 tips to keep your kids safe this summer.

#1: BE SMART WITH SUN SAFETY FOR KIDS

Sunburn, dehydration and sun or heat stroke are among the hot-weather risks parents need to be aware of when young children are playing outside.

  • Sunburn. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or above, at least 30 minutes before letting children go outside.
    • Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.
    • The sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds, so you still need protection on overcast days.
    • Have kids wear protective gear, such as sunglasses with UV protection, a hat and tight-knit cotton clothing.
  • Dehydration. Provide plenty of water when kids are engaged in outdoor activities, and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks.
  • Sun or heat stroke. Plan outdoor activities for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when possible. It’s safest to stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

Babies are at greater risk from excessive sun exposure. Protect your infant with lightweight clothes with long sleeves and legs, a wide-brimmed hat, and a lightweight blanket. Apply baby sunscreen, and choose a stroller with a large canopy to shield those harmful rays.

#2: COOL OFF WITH WATER SAFETY FOR KIDS

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of injury death for children ages 1 to 4 in the U.S., and over half of all drownings occur in the summer.

Adult supervision and other water safety habits are essential, whether you’re planning a trip to the beach, a day at the lake or just an afternoon splash in the neighborhood pool.

  • We really cannot emphasize this enough: there is no substitute for adult supervision. Never let children swim without an adult or lifeguard on duty.
    • Inflatable swimming aids such as “floaties” provide a false sense of security. Keep young children within arm’s reach at all times while in or near water.
    • Never leave children unattended at the pool for any reason — that includes turning your head to answer the phone, read a book or converse with other adults.
    • Likewise, never leave children unattended in a hot tub.
  • Obey all posted rules at public pools or other swimming areas — especially those pertaining to running and horseplay. Keep wheeled toys away from the water’s edge. Observe all diving rules.
  • If you have a pool at home, keep it securely covered when not in use, and protect it with a childproof fence and locking gate. Don’t allow diving from the side of the pool. A hot tub should have a locking lid.
  • Learn CPR and other First Aid so you’re prepared in the event of an accident.
  • Children must wear a properly-fitting life jacket at all times while riding on a boat, and adults must never consume alcohol while operating a boat.

#3: PREVENT INJURIES WITH PLAYGROUND, CAR AND BIKE SAFETY

Summertime brings with it road trips and lots of outdoor adventures. Don’t let all those fun outings end in tragedy or a trip to the hospital.

  • Car safety for kids. Never let kids ride in the cargo areas of pickup trucks or vans. Children under 12 should ride in the back seat, and be properly restrained in an appropriate child safety seat for their height and weight.
  • NEVER leave children in a parked car, even for a few minutes. In Georgia heat, it only takes a few minutes for children to die in a car. “Look before you Lock”— what is in the backseat! 
  • Bike safety. Bicyclists of all ages, including kids, must wear a properly fitting helmet while riding a bike. Make sure your child’s bike is the right size, and teach him or her to obey all traffic rules while riding.
  • Playground safety. As with other summertime activities, kids should always have adult supervision when having fun on the playground.
    • Equipment should be firmly anchored and well-maintained. There should be shock-absorbing material such as rubber, gravel or wood chips, and equipment should be installed at least 6” from fences or sidewalks.
    • Avoid clothing or accessories that could cause strangulation. These include drawstrings, necklaces or loose-fitting garments.

#4: BE CAREFUL WITH POISON IVY

Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac all contain urushiol, a rash-causing substance that produces an allergic reaction in 60-80% of all people.

You don’t even have to touch the plant to be affected. Urushiol can be transferred by touching another person or an article of clothing that has been in contact with an offending plant. If can also be inhaled if a poison ivy plant is burned.

You can reduce the risk to you and your kids by:

Learning to identify poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac leaves

  • Avoiding outdoor areas where you know poison ivy is present
  • Wearing long sleeves and pants in areas where poison ivy may be present
  • Washing skin as quickly as possible if exposure occurs
  • Bathing and washing clothes after time outdoors
  • Bathing pets who may have been exposed

Symptoms of poison ivy exposure include red, itchy, swollen skin and blisters.

  • Call a doctor if your child develops a fever or any type of rash.
  • The rash typically takes 1-2 weeks to heal.
  • Treatment includes cool showers and soothing lotion to calm the skin.
  • If your child has a severe reaction, your doctor may prescribe pills or creams to promote healing.

#5: WATCH FOR TICK BITES

Always check for ticks after you or your kids have been outdoors during the summertime. Removing the tick as quickly as possible reduces the risk of tick-borne illness such as Lyme disease.

  • Don’t use petroleum jelly or a hot match. These don’t work and may cause the tick to burrow even deeper into the skin.
  • Remove the tick using the following steps:
    • Use tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
    • Pull firmly and steadily until the tick is removed.
    • Don’t twist or rotate the tick.
    • If part of the tick stays in, it will eventually come out on its own.
    • Gently wash the affected area with soap and water.
  • Call your pediatrician. He or she may prescribe antibiotics if your child is at risk of Lyme disease.
  • Pay attention for symptoms of Lyme disease. Early treatment is crucial for long-term recovery.
    • Red ringed rash around the affected area
    • Red or irritated skin
    • Flu-like symptoms
    • Painful or swollen joints
    • Facial paralysis

See full article at

https://alpharetta.macaronikid.com/articles/5b19339ca3600634584d781a/have-fun-in-the-sun-with-these-summer-safety-tips-for-kids

Taking An Education Course Is Important!

picture of teacherThe education component of the Au Pair program is a requirement of the State Department of the United States. The State Department gives authorization for all Au Pair programs to exist.  When an Au Pair does not achieve her requirement, this puts all Au Pair agencies at risk. Completing your education hours is an important part of being an Au Pair and is required by your contract with Au Pair In America.  Taking a course will provide yet another level of experience during your year and yields many skills that you can use to further your personal goals. You may also make new friends and professional contacts! I hope you enjoy your educational courses. If you need assistance finding a course or have questions, please call or email your counselor.

Some Important Tips:

Any course can be taken as long as it is taught by an accredited USA college, university, or technical college. Only those schools approved by the State Department can be accepted. All of the schools listed on your Blog site are approved.  Please have your counselor approve any class before registering.

  •  Your counselor can clarify any questions about a school.
  • Volunteer hours do not count towards your educational credits unless it is part of a hybrid or in-person accredited college class.
  • Weekend courses do count if the course is part of a college or university.  Some places offering weekend courses are not accredited. Ask your counselor before signing up.
  • Classes should be in person. Permission for one online class can be given, if the schedule does not permit in-person classes, or the type of class you wish to take is not available or is not affordable.
  • Only one online course per semester is allowed. If you submit two certificates with the same semester timeframe, only one class will be accepted.
  • A great option for one online course accepted by the State Dept is the Au pair Advantage class offered by UCLA.
  • A hybrid online class will be accepted IF there is also an in-person component to the course.
  • All colleges, universities, and technical schools must be accredited and within the USA.
  • 72-80 hours of education are required for standard au pairs.
  • 144-160 hours for Educare au pairs.
  • For second and third-year au pairs, 36-40 hours is required for a six-month extension and 72-80 hours for a nine or twelve-month extension.
  •  Credits, hours, and CEUs are different. Count the hours you are in a classroom this must be 72 hours.
  • At the end of your course, send your community counselor your documents showing the name of the school and the hours that you have achieved, along with the name of the class you took. This proof should also have your name.  Check your certificate. Some certificates do not show the number of hours. If the hours are not present on the certificate, you will need a letter from the school stating how many hours you have achieved.
  • All education must be achieved 45 days before the end of your Au Pair term.
  • Send all certificates or proof of your classes to your community counselor.
  • If you plan to extend, your education needs to be finished four months before the end of your term.
  • Host families reimburse tuition costs and costs of related materials (books and supplies) up to $500 for the first year. EduCare companions are reimbursed up to $1000 for the first year. If it will cost you more than $500 (or $1000 for EduCare) to meet the requirement, you must pay the additional expense, so plan carefully.
  • Your host family is required to provide transportation, including gasoline, parking, or public transportation costs (if applicable) to and from classes in your community. The cost of transportation is in addition to the $500/$1000 allocated to tuition and related fees. It is your host family’s responsibility to provide transportation or cover the transportation costs until you complete your educational requirement, even if the $500 education allowance has already been spent.
  • After you finish 72 hours of education class, your host family is no longer obligated to support your desire to continue to attend classes.
  • Some locations will not be accessible to your host address. The host family must agree to the location of a class as some will be too far for the host car to be driven.
  • Once you have met the 72-hour requirement for the State Department, your host family is not obligated to pay out any remaining education monies not spent.
  • To extend your first Au Pair term, you will need to have proof of 72 hours. Send the documentation to your community counselor as soon as possible. You should plan to have your education requirement finished at the time you request an extension. This happens approximately four months before the end of your first term. Au pair In America requires 72 hours to be able to extend your au pair term. Without 72 hours completed 45 days before  the end of your term, Au Pair In America will not accept your application to extend and you must go home at the end of your first year.

If you want to extend and have not completed all of the hours, but you do intend to have them finished at least two months prior to the end of your first term, you will need to do the following:

1. Register for a class that will complete 72 hours of education at least two months before the end of your first term. All proof of education must be given to your counselor before your deadline to extend. As soon as your counselor can check off for the education requirement, your request to extend can be approved. Without the education requirement finished, you will not be able to start the interviewing process for your extension.  

2. Send documents showing proof of your registration to your community counselor as soon as possible.  This allows the office to submit your request to the State Department and upon approval, you can begin to interview with families.  You must have a match before your year ends. 

Your counselor is the best person to ask questions about your education requirement. Courses and colleges are constantly changing. Your counselor is always researching new and exciting courses that are appropriate for you.  If you are aware of a new resource, please let your counselor know!