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Homesickness can be a problem during the holidays, even if it hasn\u2019t been at any other time of the year. Au pairs often miss their friends and family, familiar places and their own traditions and customs. The holiday activities in the United States seem, and may actually be, different just at a time when an au pair would welcome something familiar.<\/p>\n
It is common for au pairs\u2019 emotions to be close to the surface during the holidays. Her highs are higher, her lows are lower. The enormity of what she has done\u2013actually living in another country (which is an amazing thing when you think about it!)\u2013hits her and throws her into a self-protective mode.<\/p>\n
Host parents can help her through this unfamiliar territory by talking to her about what your specific family activities will be (gifts, meals, visitors, religious services, in-home traditions, or none of these, as the case may be.) In the spirit of cultural exchange, ask her if she has any favorite holiday traditions or foods that you might be able to incorporate into your family\u2019s celebration of the season. Let her know what you will be doing, when you will be doing it, and what she can expect. Talk to her about what has to be accomplished and get her involved and interested. Don\u2019t expect her to just \u201cknow\u201d what needs to be done. Give her some clear, agreed upon assignments. Make her feel a part of things. And, let her know her contribution is needed and appreciated.<\/p>\n