Lucas “Poppins” was a great au pair. But he wasn’t born great – his success is the result of conscious efforts to develop his skills, patience, and open-mindedness. A few years ago, we chatted with Lucas on IG Live, and he shared some tips with...
Updated 30 April 2021. Are you having trouble remembering the “before times”? As the USA reopens, folks are starting to venture out while adhering to federal, state and local guidance. Your area may be starting to open up a little. The Center for Disease Control...
How COVID-19 has presented new education opportunities for au pairs A favorite idiom reads, “every cloud has a silver lining.” During COVID, one of those silver linings is the choice of thousands of online course opportunities across the United States. As part of the J-1...
A host mom reflects on how COVID-19 changed life with her au pair, and how Au Pair USA has supported her While COVID-19 has affected many cultural exchange programs, many au pairs who arrived prior to social distancing regulations are still nobly supporting their host...
As you near the end of your au pair program, it’s time to prepare for the next phase of your life. You may be returning to school and/or job hunting. This post will explain who au pairs can ask for letters of recommendation, what to ask...
As an au pair, you’ve put in a lot of time getting ready for your program year. You’ve had prep work to do before leaving your home country. Once you arrive to your host family, the learning continues. Here are a few tips for a successful program...
As you approach the end of your au pair program, there are several things to consider. The process for wrapping up your au pair program should be as thoughtful as the pre-arrival process. Extensions If you decide to extend for another 6, 9 or 12...
Phew, we made it through Thanksgiving! Most American families celebrate Thanksgiving similarly: lots of food and family and friends, naps, and more food. With December upon us, it’s a good time for au pairs and host families to talk about the upcoming holidays and plan...
This blog was originally published in October 2019 and revised in September 2024 by other contributors. While smoking or vaping is technically not against the rules of the Au Pair program, it is frowned upon in American culture. Most host families do not allow smoking...
Becoming an au pair in the USA will grow your independence. At the same time, creating new friendships is one of the best parts of the program. Au pair Tammy, from South Africa, excelled at forming relationships with fellow au pairs, Americans, and her Local...