These tips are not intended to scare you, but to make you aware of some simple things you can do to prevent being the victim of a crime. Pay attention to what is going on around you and be aware of people near you. Don’t hitchhike (means getting a ride with strangers.) Be very careful Read More
For Kids – National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival continues through April 12. There are activities to participate in or just go downtown to take in the beauty and visit a few museums. You can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the National Mall. http://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/cms/index.php?id=390 With many kids out of school for Spring Break, this Read More
What We Will and Will Not Do
Recently, Terry and I have discussed a trend we have seen in recent months. We have been surprised and saddened by the lengths that some of our competitors will go to in order to get more business. In an industry built on the concept of providing cultural exchange and childcare, we still hold those Read More
Summer Au Pairs
From time to time, I receive inquiries about a Summer Au Pair Program. So, why don’t we offer a summer au pair program? Here are the main reasons. #1 Cost Compared to Standard Au Pairs Agencies that offer summer only au pairs have an average weekly cost of $365-$390 per week. That is $30-$55 more Read More
For Kids – Local Earth Day Events
Check out fun, eco-friendly events for kids in the local area: http://www.chesapeakefamily.com/Highlighted-Articles/Highlighted-Articles/local-earth-day-events.html Read More
Is an Au Pair Right For You?
If you are coming to this blog, chances are you are interested in the au pair program. It is a win-win situation for many families and au pairs, but you have to make sure it is a good fit for you. Are you… looking for flexible, affordable child care? comfortable with someone new living in Read More
Handling Expenses
Miscellaneous Expenses At a recent new host family orientation, we discussed different ways to handle the little expenses that may come up. Things like when an au pair takes the kids out for ice cream or picks up a gallon of milk. Some families keep a cookie jar fund, a little cash that they set Read More
For Kids – St. Patrick's Day Game
A St. Patrick’s Day Game Pin The Shamrock on the Leprechaun Supplies: Big picture of a Leprechaun A green shamrock, for each child, with adhesive on back and their name on the front Blindfold How To Play: Blindfold the player, spin ‘em around and let them try to stick the shamrock where it’s supposed to Read More
Communicate with Your Host Parents
Share your ideas, discuss cultural differences and ask questions if you don’t understand. If you have a problem, clearly and calmly present it to your host parents. Suggest a solution, listen and try to reach a compromise. Let your host family know if language is a problem. If you don’t understand a word, ask questions. Read More
Why Choose Au Pair in America?
I have found that these are some of the most common reasons host families select Au Pair in America. EXPERIENCE APIA is the first and most experienced au pair program. Our Community Counselors average 9 years with APIA. Our Stamford Office staff average 7 years with APIA. SERVICE Our Community Counselors get paid to provide Read More