During her first year as an au pair, Galu was sure she would extend her au pair experience for another year. After spending 12 incredible months in California, she was excited to find a new location to call home in the U.S. She began interviewing with host families in various parts of the country. She was beyond thrilled when a New York family reached out to her one day. Their initial message let her know they shared a commonality: a love for Broadway. A host family from New York who also loved Broadway? This was off to a great start!
Galu and the Banner family had their first interview, and Galu loved their energy! Galu remembers host mom Jennifer was very honest from the beginning explaining that her kids needed an au pair with a lot of energy. Galu, being very energetic herself and feeling the Banner family’s questions were thoughtful and considerate, knew it would be a great match. They decided to make it official, and Galu arrived soon after to begin her au pair extension year with the Banners.
As a former teacher in Argentina, Galu had lots of experience working with children. Having also been an au pair for a year prior, she was well equipped when she met Jordan (4) and Joshua (6). Galu’s past experience and energetic and patient personality—paired with the family’s openness and honesty—enabled her to thrive as an au pair with them. She was fortunate her host family also gave her a lot of tools to help her achieve success in her au pair role for two young kids.
I teach musical theater, so I teach my kids to breathe. When my kids are crying a lot, they’re not breathing, so I remind them to breathe. I teach them how to smell the flower and blow the candle, a way to take deep breaths. -Au pair Galu, 25
This past spring, Galu and her host kids would often find dandelions outside. These were a great way to teach them to take deep breaths, while also having some fun by making a wish when they blew. “It helps them to relax and calm down”, Galu says.
Galu isn’t only an excellent au pair when it comes to helping her host kids cope with challenging situations. She is also introducing them to her Argentinian culture and cuisine.
I am really proud of my home country, so I do share a lot of culture with my host family, especially food. I like to cook, so I asked them if I could cook one day each week. One day, I was making chicken, and Joshua told me I was making his favorite chicken. Sometimes they are picky, so I felt really good about it. -Au pair Galu, 25
Galu’s host family shows their appreciation right back to her. They recently made her birthday very special, letting her sleep in and then wake up to find balloons and a special card. That evening, the Banners took her to dinner at an Argentinian restaurant. Then, they concluded the night with Argentinian treats and an Argentinian cake to celebrate her big day.
There is nothing more important to a parent than knowing that their children are happy and safe. Galu goes out of her way to ensure the safety of our children and their happiness. I have seen my children genuinely laugh with her and have a great time. We are happy to spend this time together, learn about her culture, and share our cultures with her. -Host Mom Jennifer Banner
What makes the Banner family and au pair Galu’s partnership a success? They put a lot of attention on communication and being a team. They want to be in agreement, so there is no confusion for the kids. When Galu is using certain techniques with the children, she shares them later that day with her host parents so they are aware and also asks their opinion if they’re open to it. The Banners are usually very appreciative of Galu’s suggestions, especially with her background in teaching. For example, Galu was instrumental in potty training Jordan, working together as a team with her host family and their approach.
Galu’s au pair program is coming to an end this fall. It’s bittersweet for the Banners and her alike. “She will be missed once this chapter is over, but we believe she will do great things in her future endeavors”, says host mom Jennifer. Galu’s advice to future au pairs for a successful au pair experience: “Talk a lot with your host parents. Don’t make space for gray areas. It may seem easier, but it’s better to just ask and make sure. Everyone knows, and you’re all on the same page.”
Marisa is a lover of all things cultural exchange. She and her family have hosted au pairs from Brazil, Germany, Colombia, Spain, and Ecuador. As a mom of four and the founder of Mama Work It, she helps working moms juggle mom life, work life, spouse life, fill in the blank life through her books, courses and coaching programs.
