Rolling Out the Welcome Mat: How Host Families Can Help Their Au Pair Feel at Home

Welcoming an au pair into your family is an exciting experience, filled with the promise of cultural exchange and a helping hand. But it’s also a big transition for your au pair, who is leaving their home, family, and familiar surroundings to live in a new country. As a host family, you play a crucial role in making your au pair feel comfortable, supported, and truly welcome in your home. Here’s how you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your au pair:

Before Arrival:

  • Communication is Key: Start communicating with your au pair before they arrive. Send a welcome email or video message, share information about your family, your daily routines, and the local area. This helps build anticipation and reduces anxiety.
  • Prepare Their Space: Make sure their room is comfortable, clean, and inviting. Provide essentials like bedding, towels, and toiletries. Consider adding a personal touch, like a welcome basket with local treats or a small gift.
  • Share Information: Provide your au pair with helpful information about your family, house rules, local transportation, and nearby attractions. A welcome guide or handbook can be incredibly useful.

Upon Arrival:

  • Warm Welcome: Greet your au pair warmly at the airport or train station. A friendly face and a genuine smile can make a huge difference.
  • Home Tour: Give them a tour of your home, showing them where everything is located and explaining how things work.
  • Introduce the Family: Introduce them to all family members, including pets! Make sure everyone knows their name and how to pronounce it correctly.
  • First Meal Together: Share a meal together on their first day. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other and make them feel included.
  • Provide Essentials: Make sure they have everything they need, including access to Wi-Fi, a phone or SIM card, and information about local transportation.
  • Explain the House Rules: Clearly explain your house rules and expectations regarding childcare, household chores, and personal time. Open communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings.

Ongoing Support:

  • Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss how things are going. Ask them about their experiences, any challenges they’re facing, and if there’s anything you can do to support them.
  • Offer Help and Guidance: Be available to answer questions and provide guidance on everything from local customs to navigating public transportation.
  • Encourage Independence: While offering support is important, also encourage your au pair to explore their independence and build their own social network.
  • Include Them in Family Activities: Invite your au pair to participate in family activities, outings, and celebrations. This helps them feel like a part of the family.
  • Respect Their Privacy: Respect their privacy and personal space. Give them time to themselves and avoid intruding on their personal life.
  • Celebrate Their Culture: Show an interest in their culture and encourage them to share their traditions and customs with your family.
  • Be Patient and Understanding: Adjusting to a new culture and living with a new family can be challenging. Be patient and understanding as your au pair navigates this transition.
  • Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication throughout their stay. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, and be responsive to their needs.

Creating a Home Away from Home

The goal is to create a “home away from home” for your au pair. By being welcoming, supportive, and understanding, you can help them feel comfortable, build a strong relationship, and make their au pair year a positive and memorable experience. Remember that your au pair is not just an employee; they are a member of your family, and treating them with kindness and respect will go a long way in making them feel welcome and valued.