Twenty-year-old Charika, also known as Rika, knew the Swerlands were the right family for her from the getgo. Although it was the first family Rika interviewed with, she felt there was a great vibe between them. After just two days of interviews, they had matched. They continued chatting weekly and one month later Rika was en route on the 31-hour trip from South Africa to the U.S.
A tired but excited Rika arrived on September 13, 2023. She was greeted at the airport by host mom Katie and toddler, Asher. After a short drive to her new home, Rika met the rest of her host family, host dad Jordan and three-month-old Emma. The family had a quick dinner and Rika was off to sleep after her lengthy trip.
The months that followed bought a series of cultural learning experiences and core memories. Rika noticed differences in how American children were raised and admired the positive and communicative approaches to discipline. She loves how Americans talk to their kids and that the kids aren’t afraid of making mistakes. Rika has also embraced the lengthy summer vacation schedules from school. Summer has allowed her a lot of time to spend with her host kids, as well as her host parents, as they often travel to Blakely Island to meet extended family.
Being an au pair has allowed Rika the opportunity to travel to numerous places, actually, many of those trips accompanying her host family. The Swerlands have taken Rika to Whistler, Canada and Walla Walla (in Washington). Rika has been to Stevens Pass numerous times to ski with her host family. It’s incredible to think this au pair’s first time seeing snow was just last year, and now she’s skiing! The Swerlands and Rika are currently planning a trip to Oregon as well.
Some of Rika’s best memories have been celebrating the holidays with the Swerlands and their extended family. Even after the kids are asleep, Rika hangs out with the other adults, chatting and playing games. She even watched football this Christmas, despite her not fully understanding the rules! Her host dad has turned her into a Seattle Seahawks fan.
While it may appear that being an au pair is all about travel and fun, Rika often tells newer au pairs to adjust their expectations. “It’s still a job”, she says. “Yes, you get a lot of travel time, but you will work 45 hours a week. It’s an exchange and you spend a lot of time with your family. If you really love kids and spending time with them, then do it.”
Fortunately, that’s the case for Rika as her host kids adore her, often wanting to spend time with her even when she’s not on the clock. Rika doesn’t mind though. She knows it’s important to make an effort to be part of the family, and she sees how her family does the same for her, constantly inviting her to participate in activities and be part of their day to day lives. “The more effort you give, the more they will give. They will feel appreciated and they will make you feel appreciated”, Rika says.
Thank you, Rika, for being such a fantastic au pair for the Swerland family and a Super Au Pair Finalist!
