Picture this: The Bay Bridge gleaming in the background as au pairs from different countries share stories, games, and international snacks with their American host families. This vibrant scene came to life at Au Pair USA’s recent gathering at the Commonwealth Club. Local Coordinators Nadia Ho and Lisa Moschetti recently organized this gathering as one of Au Pair USA’s annual Host Family Day events.
Making Connections
With a diverse group of au pairs from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Japan, and Spain and their host families, the group was able to come together for some cultural exchange fun. Local Coordinators Nadia and Lisa organized fun activities from traditional corn hole games to creative passport activities that included sticker “stamps” participants could collect. For many of the kids in attendance, it was the first time they got to receive their own “passport.” Host mom Ans said, “I really enjoyed connecting with everyone at the event through the passport game. It was a fun way to break the ice and learn about people from different cultures.”
What’s a party without food? Refreshments included sandwiches, a charcuterie board, veggies, and a wide variety of snacks from different countries. Au pairs and host families enjoyed trying different options from all over the globe!
The opportunity allowed au pairs and host families to have fun, connect, and get to know each other. Even though the event took work to execute, Nadia and Lisa also enjoyed connecting with local au pairs and families in a unique and different way than they normally do. While life can be busy, Nadia said she encourages both host families and au pairs to participate in social events like these. “This will enrich their own experience and build long-lasting relationships.”
Cultural Exchange Beyond the Day’s Event
While this particular day and event may have been filled with cultural exchange and connections, the Au Pair program lives and breathes this mission daily throughout the year. Au pairs gather monthly for local cultural cluster events organized by their Local Coordinators, and host families learn about a new culture from the comfort of their own homes while hosting an international au pair.
The best part of the Au Pair program for me if that my son gets to interact with someone from a different culture. It’s amazing to see him pick up bits of another language and develop a sense that the world is bigger than just the U.S. –Host Mom Ans
Big thanks to Nadia and Lisa for coordinating such a fantastic au pair and host family event and promoting cultural exchange and connections in the work you do! If you’re ready to get started hosting your au pair, apply for free!