Bringing an au pair into your home can be an exciting and enriching experience for both your family and the au pair. However, it is important to properly prepare for their arrival to ensure a smooth transition and a positive experience for everyone involved. In this article, we will give you with some essential tips on how to prepare for your au pair’s arrival.
Essential tips for preparing for your Au pair’s arrival
1. Set Clear Expectations
Before your au pair arrives, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of what you expect from them and what they can expect from you. Communication is key in establishing a successful relationship. Take the time to discuss your family’s routine, house rules, and any specific responsibilities you would like the au pair to take on. This will help to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts in the future.
2. Prepare Their Living Space
Creating a comfortable and welcoming living space for your au pair is essential and regulatory in many countries for the host family. Ensure that they have own room, with own key so they can keep safety of their personal things. The room upon arrival should be clean and tidy as well as equipped with the necessary furniture and amenities. Provide them with clean bedding, towels, and any other essentials they may need in case they do not bring their own essentials with them. Consider adding personal touches such as a welcome note or small gift to make them feel valued and appreciated. A happy au pair means happiness to your kids and family too.
3. Familiarize Them with the Local Area
Help your au pair settle into their new surroundings by providing them with information about the local area. Share maps, public transportation schedules, and important contact numbers. Take them on a tour of the neighborhood, showing them key locations such as nearby schools, parks, shops, and public facilities. New environments can be daunting and uncomfortable to new visitors. Such a welcoming orientation will help them feel more at ease and confident in navigating their new environment. It also means quick adaptation to duty tasks as well and safety for your own children.
4. Plan for Language Support
If your au pair is not a native speaker of your language, it is important to plan for language support. You may also encourage your family members to communicate with the au pair in the language they are learning to help them practice and improve their language skills. However, as you might already know, au pair’s original purpose is for youth language exchange facilitation. Therefore, consider enrolling them in language classes or providing them with resources such as language learning apps or books. Optimal AuPair has already language practice courses on offer on cheap affordable prices. We will be happy to offer personal or class lessons for your new au pair to progress with their foreign language experience.
5. Discuss Cultural Differences
Every culture has its own unique customs and traditions. Take the time to discuss and explain your family’s cultural practices to your au pair. Similarly, encourage them to share their own culture and traditions with your family. This will foster mutual understanding and respect, and help to create a more inclusive and harmonious environment.
6. Prepare a Welcome Pack
A thoughtful gesture such as a welcome pack can go a long way in making your au pair feel appreciated. Consider putting together a pack with useful information, such as emergency contact numbers, important addresses, and a list of local attractions. You could also include some local snacks or small gifts that are representative of your area. This will help your au pair feel welcomed and valued as a member of your family. We also support with such a preparation should you need help, simply contact us.
7. Discuss Work Schedule and Time Off
It is important to establish clear guidelines regarding your au pair’s work schedule and time off. Discuss their regular working hours, as well as any additional responsibilities or expectations. Be open to their input and try to find a schedule that works well for both parties. Additionally, discuss their entitlement to time off and how you will handle any vacation or personal days they may request.
8. Prepare for Cultural Exchange
One of the great benefits of having an au pair is the opportunity for cultural exchange. Encourage your family members to engage with the au pair and learn about their culture. Plan activities or outings that allow for cultural exploration and exchange. This will not only enrich your family’s experience but also help your au pair feel more connected and valued. Should your au pair be located in Europe, we offer monthly au pair cultural meetings and one yearly seminar all which positively boosts au pair experience, cultural explores whilst having fun. You au pair will not be bored or feel lonely.
Conclusion
Preparing for your au pair’s arrival involves setting all the above points in place. By taking these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition and a positive experience for both your family and your au pair. As you have noticed, we are a phone contact away to assist you on all these minute yet revolutionary steps in establishing a successful on boarding with your new au pair.