It’s almost Father’s Day and time to honor all the dads in our lives, including host dads at Au Pair USA! Host dads play an important role in the cultural exchange world for au pairs. From helping our au pairs learn about new sports (and recruiting them to be fans of their favorite teams) and telling infamous dad jokes (do those land in other languages?), host dads have been helping au pairs create memorable experiences at Au Pair USA for over 30 years.
Don’t take our word for it, though. We asked our au pairs to tell us about some of their experiences shared and lessons learned with their host dads during their au pair program years:
I’ve learned so many things, but at the top of my head would have to be to never be afraid to try new things, challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone.
-Ana Paula, Mexico
(I’ve learned) that having kids and being a professional can be done at the same time.
-Luisa, Mexico
(I’ve learned) the best and worst jokes ever.
-Adriana, Costa Rica
I appreciate that he takes the time to teach me about things that he enjoys. For example, we often watch basketball games and whenever I don’t understand something he’ll take the time to explain it to me.
-Ane, South Africa
Being away from your family on days like Father’s Day can be hard for au pairs, making them miss their families that much more. We’re so thankful for the humor, open mindedness, and support our host dads provide our au pairs daily.
I really appreciate when he takes the time to ask me how I’m doing, how I’m feeling.
Ana Paula, Mexico
(I admire) how nice he is, and that he always offers to help me when I need help.
Joanne, South Africa
Even though Father’s Day may look different here in the U.S. for many au pairs, they’re still excited to honor their host dads with thank you notes, cards, and cooking some delicious barbecue foods! Although, some things may remain a little different (and even surprising) on this day for au pairs. Adriana from Costa Rica says, “I can’t believe that Americans eat ketchup without mayonnaise on the side”. Cultural exchange affects us in big and small ways!
On behalf of all of us here at Au Pair USA, a big thank you to our host dads. We appreciate you and the support you provide our au pairs each and every day!
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.
