Dedicated to ages 10-15 this serves as a reminder of the insecurity of young adolescents. Help the young adolescents you care for to recognize their abilities. Help to make home a safe and comfortable place where it is okay to learn from mistakes. Help them to learn about the adult values of hard work, family and discipline.

Even though kids this age are typically pretty independent and may seem like they don’t need or want much interaction from an au pair, this is not completely true. They still enjoy when you take an interest in their activities.  Find ways to connect with them through shared interests or let them introduce you to things they care about.

This is a hard time for many young people, lots of changes, lots of challenges, feelings and emotions. Some days that awesome kid isn’t so awesome. Some days, ok, lots of days, may not be great days for them and they may seem preoccupied, moody, distant and they may even say things that aren’t always nice. Remember to keep your cool, be consistent, even if they are emotionally all over the place. Keep trying to connect, but also give them space.

Photo: Marlon Dias