Four “Don’ts” As An Au Pair Abroad

 

We know, we know.

 

It sucks hearing about the pressing part of Au Pairing, but it is SO necessary to have the right expectations before going abroad.

 

 

Below we explain four main “don’ts” of an Au Pair abroad.

 

Don’t Go With The Wrong Expectation:

 

It’s so easy to think Au Pairing is all glitz & Instagram-glam!

 

Yes, you will be able to travel, save some money, study, and make new friends, but the MAIN purpose of becoming an Au Pair abroad is CULTURAL EXCHANGE.

 

Au Pairing is not an opportunity to emigrate to another country or to make tons of money.

That is not what the program is all about.

 

Did you know the Au Pair program is considered a form of cultural exchange that gives the family, and the Au Pair a chance to experience and learn new cultures?

 

This explains to us that it’s not about making money or even partying. It’s about creating lifelong bonds with your host family so you can cherish the memories you made together for the rest of your lives.

That’s a bonus!

 

You need to LOVE children and foreign cultures – that is cultural exchange at its best!

 

Don’t Expect Things To Be Like At Home:

 

This is super important to maximize your experience as an Au Pair.

 

The food, culture, language, and lifestyle is going to be so incredibly different to yours.

 

Don’t expect McDonald’s to taste the same.

 

Do not expect your host family to treat you the same as your family would – they have a different culture and as an Au Pair you are experiencing their culture and way of doing first-hand.

 

This is something that no tourist would ever be able to do – this is such a unique way of learning about another country’s culture.

 

Don’t Lie:

 

 

Never, ever lie to your host family, or your agency. This will damage your reputation.

Admit your mistakes and move on.

Host families are trusting their most valuable possessions with you, and if they realize that you have lied to them they will have trouble trusting you in other situations.

 

Don’t Assume (Ask Questions):

 

 

Whether you are interviewing, or you have just arrived in your host country, there are plenty of things you don’t know about the family (and the country).

 

Rather than assume the answers, you should always ask.

 

For example, if a host family tells you: “You’re allowed to use the car for short distances.” clarify what “short distances” are to them.

 

This will minimize miscommunication and prevent a lot of unhappiness.

 

 

The main goal of the Au Pair program is to improve relationships between countries, and the best way to do this is by learning about one’s culture – in other words, cultural exchange.

 

You are making the world a better place by participating in a cultural exchange program.

 

 

You are educating yourself and the people around you.

Would you like to become an Au Pair abroad?

Click the picture below for more information: