Almost everyone experiences homesickness and culture shock to some degree, when they come to live in a completely new environment. So much is different and it takes time to adjust. It is normal to miss your own family, at home. Try to remember that they support you and want you to make the most of Read More
Thanksgiving
At Thanksgiving, we pause and express gratitude to others. This year we want to thank all of our au pairs and host families for the care and support they give each other every day. We also thank each au pair for sharing with us & our families about their culture, for demonstrating their bravery for Read More
Halloween Safety Tips
TRICK OR TREAT TOGETHER – Children should trick or treat in groups and younger children should have adult supervision. DRESS UP SAFELY – Avoid masks that block children’s vision and make sure costumes don’t pose a tripping hazard. Avoid sharp or heavy props that could cause injury. BE VISIBLE – Children should be Read More
Flu Shots
Many au pairs and host families are looking for places to get flu shots this time of year. Au Pair insurance does not cover immunizations, but there are lots of places to get flu shots for about $35, but there are free clinics through the health departments as well. If the host family is Read More
My First American Birthday!!
My First American Birthday The autumnal months officially started for me. It was the week of the 1st of October, my birthday, which usually symbolizes the beginning of fall for me. But this year everything was different since I celebrated my birthday in the US. Looking at the weather, it didn’t seem to be Read More
Around the World in 80 Days – United Kingdom
UNITED KINGDOM Western Europe Capitals: England – London; Scotland – Edinburgh; Wales – Cardiff; Northern Ireland – Belfast Languages: English Predominant Religion(s): Christianity (Church of England, Roman Catholic) – most other religions are represented COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: British people often describe themselves as reserved, but in fact they are quite funny and have Read More
Around the World in 80 Days – Ukraine
UKRAINE Eastern Europe Capital: Kyiv Languages: Ukrainian (official), Russian, Other General The idea of being an au pair in the U.S. is becoming common in the Ukraine. It has been an option in other countries for several years. Applicants from Ukraine are motivated by a desire to improve their English and to Read More
Around the World in 80 Days – Turkey
TURKEY Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia Capital: Ankara Languages: Turkish (official), Kurdish, Dimli (or Zaza), Azeri, Kabardian The idea of being an au pair is becoming common in Turkey. Applicants from Turkey are motivated by opportunities to improve their English and travel. The job potential of an au pair improves upon Read More
Around the World in 80 Days – Thailand
THAILAND Southeast Asia Capital: Bangkok Languages: Thai Predominant Religion(s): Buddhism COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: The Thai Smile, a unique characteristic of Thais. Thais smile at other people easily even when they do not know them. Thai Tolerance – Thais are very patient. When they are stuck in traffic for hours, they still smile. It Read More
Around the World in 80 Days – Switzerland
SWITZERLAND Western Europe Capital: Zurich Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh Religion(s): Christianity (predominantly Roman Catholic/Protestant) COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: Swiss people are very friendly and polite. Small is beautiful: Swiss are modest and reserved in a pleasant way. It’s impolite to be too loud. Traditions, quality, punctuality and perfectionism mean a lot to the Read More
