My Au Pair Travel Kit

MY AU PAIR TRAVEL KIT

CONGRATULATIONS! You have been selected to be a Cultural Care au pair. You are now ready to look for a host family and prepare for an amazing journey. We have selected you to join the community of Cultural Care au pairs because we think you have what it takes to make a success of this very special program. However, finding a great host family does require flexibility and the understanding that everyone’s needs are different.

This book has been designed for you as a guide, a tool to be used actively, a resource and part of your training. We hope that you will find it useful, not only before you travel, but also once you arrive and throughout your au pair stay.

You will see a number of checklists.

These will remind you of what you need to do when. Review them and watch for emails from your Cultural Care office.

We have included tasks for you to complete. Some of them relate to what you will experience and some of them are connected to what you will learn in your online training and at the training school. All of it is designed to help you have a successful experience.

Shall we get started? Let’s go!

»

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CHAPTERS

01 04 02 05 03 My Preparation page 04

My Host Family page 76

My Course Activities page 54

Good to Know page 100

My Support Network page 68

My Course Activities

Learn about our training program and how you can prepare in the most effective way for the au pair experience. Discover all the resources we provide and use the checklists to make sure you are doing the right things at the right time.

My Support Network My Host Family

GET SET » 22

GO! » 34

You have been selected for the Cultural Care Au Pair program and it’s time to start preparing. Here you will learn what to do next and all about the resources we will provide to help prepare and train you.

You have committed to a host family. We are excited for you. Now there are a lot of practical things that you need to take care of and you will find them outlined in this section.

This section is about the last two weeks before you fly.

You’ll be busy packing and saying goodbye. This section is created to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

These tasks are for you, make them your own.

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Good to Know

GET READY » 08

TASKS » 56

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My Preparation

01

MY PREPARATION

My Preparation My Course Activities

My Support Network My Host Family

Good to Know

“ I F WE WERE MEANT TO STAY IN ONE PLACE WE`D HAVE ROOTS INSTEAD OF FEET.”

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My Preparation

GET READY

My Course Activities

Congratulations!

You’ve been selected to join the program.

YOUR CHECKLIST

Log in to your Au Pair Online Account My Support Network

Start MyAuPairCourses and plan when you will complete each section » Set your own deadlines for each course Prepare for matching by reviewing the Matching and Interviewing Guide

My Host Family

Review your virtual life

This section is all about your preparation and getting to know your resources. The following pages will help you check off the items on your checklist.

Good to Know

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Training and preparing you for this experience is our top priority now. On this page you will find an overview of the steps involved in your training.

This section describes training and preparation opportunities. Each resource has been designed to help you have a successful experience.

We require that you use all of them.

[12]

AU PAIR ONLINE ACCOUNT

Your go-to place to prepare, learn, and find information. You can access it from your computer, tablet or smart phone and you should check it every day.

AU PAIR TRAVEL KIT

[15]

PREPARATION FOR MATCHING

[16]

MyAuPairCourses

offline ° prepare ° right here

online ° review ° interview

online ° self-study ° learn

You have found a host family

GET READY WORKSHOP webinar ° interactive ° travel

Your departure

Lorena, au pair from Colombia

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[18]

NEW YORK TRAINING SCHOOL face-to-face ° classes ° arrive

Your arrival to your host family

Good to Know

Cultural Care did a great job in preparing me for my year, but the truth is that even though I had the best training ever; it could not fully prepare me. Every family is so different and so unique […] Part of this experience is always figuring things out by yourself.

My Host Family

[17]

My Support Network

Our training program has been developed to provide you with the right information at the right time.

[14]

My Course Activities

TRAINING & PREPARATION

My Preparation

You have been selected

UPDATE YOUR APPLICATION

Of course you can also call us at your local home office or in the US at 1-800-333-6056 for any questions you have.

HOW CAN I TRAVEL WHILE I AM AN AU PAIR?

You will find all of this information and more in your online account.

WHAT'S THE NEW YORK TRAINING SCHOOL LIKE?

WHAT CLASSES CAN I TAKE DURING MY STAY?

» www.culturalcare.com/login

SEE HOST FAMILY MATCHES

FIND THE RIGHT FAMILY FASTER

You can view the details of any host family who is considering selecting you as their au pair. You can send the family a direct message and also submit feedback to Cultural Care Au Pair about the match.

You will receive an email each time you are matched with a host family, so please be sure to check your email a few times each day.

Our host families love to see that you are excited about being an au pair. By logging in every day, by updating your application and by completing MyAuPairCourses they can see that you are as excited as they are. Being active in your account will help you find the right family.

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Good to Know

Start today and continue to use it until you return home.

You will receive important updates from us at Cultural Care through your online account so keep an eye on it every day.

HOW DO I COPE WITH CHANGE AND BEING HOMESICK?

You will see a Matching and Interviewing Guide in your online account. This guide is full of firsthand tips, sample questions and readiness exercises - everything you need to prepare for a successful interview with a host family.

My Host Family

WHEN TO USE IT?

Host families truly love seeing au pair videos. Many prefer to review an application that includes a video, which means that your application is instantly more appealing when yours includes a video.

FOR EXAMPLE, DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS LIKE:

My Support Network

Please keep your profile updated and submit changes or additions to your application. Some updates will help us find you a great host family even more quickly, for example: » Additional experience caring for children » Improvements on your driving or swimming skills » Updates on your English level (if a non-native speaker) If there are any changes to your program participation or ideal departure date, please contact the office in your home country immediately.

UPLOAD A VIDEO

PREPARE FOR THE MATCHING PROCESS

WHAT WILL HOST FAMILIES EXPECT FROM ME?

My Course Activities

Your online account has been designed to answer all of your questions. Based on our 25 year history of helping au pairs have a successful experience, we created this space to help you succeed. Here are five reasons to log in to your online account every day:

My Preparation

AU PAIR ONLINE ACCOUNT

Your Au Pair Online Account is not only a platform for preparation but where you will find answers to many of your questions before and during your au pair experience. You can use it as a tool to find answers to many of your questions before and during your au pair experience.

PREPARATION FOR MATCHING

My Course Activities

Your Au Pair Travel Kit has been designed to help you prepare for your au pair experience. It includes five different sections. As you review them and complete tasks and assignments you will be preparing for your journey.You will discover things about yourself and your future host family.

My Preparation

AU PAIR TRAVEL KIT

YOU WILL SOON BE SPEAKING WITH POTENTIAL HOST FAMILIES.

Jonida, au pair from Italy

IT DEPENDS ON MANY FACTORS INCLUDING: Matching au pair qualifications with host family needs

Matching your expectations with a family’s expectations

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online ° review ° interview

Ask your Cultural Care Au Pair office if they offer a Matching webinar or workshop that you can take part in.

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Good to Know

In your online account you will find our Matching and Interviewing Guide.

This has been created to help you prepare for the interview process. It is important that you think about what a good host family really means to you, the guide will help you do that.

» Make sure you complete all of the assignments in this book before you travel as they will be discussed at the training school.

offline ° prepare ° right here

You being responsive when a host family tries to contact you

My Host Family

Finding the right host family will be one of the most challenging parts of this process. We cannot guarantee that you will find the right host family. You need to be an active and responsible participant in the matching process.

My Support Network

"Be careful how you choose your host family, but at the same time don’t be too picky: a big house or a big city doesn’t necessarily mean a better host family."

My Preparation

GET READY WORKSHOP

You can now access MyAuPairCourses through your online account. MyAuPairCourses is Cultural Care's online learning center designed for your success.

Once you have confirmed a match with a host family you will start preparing for your departure. The Get Ready Workshop is an interactive webinar that you will be required to take part in. It covers topics including:

online ° self study ° learn

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» www.culturalcare.com/login

What it will be like settling into your new home and what host families can and cannot expect of you. The workshop will review your rights and obligations as a participant of the au pair program.

CULTURAL DIFFERENCES Cultural differences between the USA and your country. The workshop is hosted by the Cultural Care staff in your country. You can trust them as experts on how your culture may be different from American culture.

Good to Know

MyAuPairCourses allows you to get a head start on training before traveling to our New York training school. You must complete all courses before you travel to the USA. Everyone will learn at their own pace but you should plan to spend about eight hours completing MyAuPairCourses.

PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

My Host Family

We have designed the online training program to make learning as engaging and interactive as possible. It was developed in collaboration with childcare, medical and educational specialists.

We also listened to the experts – former Cultural Care au pairs – and they have told us what they think you need to know.

Practical matters such as opening a bank account in the USA and how to choose college or university classes. It is an opportunity to ask any questions you have about the practical aspects of moving from your country to the USA.

My Support Network

Au Pair Online Account

PRACTICAL MATTERS

My Course Activities

MyAuPairCourses

[ webinar ° interactive ° travel

Your Cultural Care Au Pair office will invite you to attend a Get Ready Workshop when it is time.

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[

My Support Network

Your time at the school will be a hectic mix of intensive training sessions and fun while getting used to America with your new au pair friends from all over the globe! When you arrive at the school you will receive a welcome pack which outlines the schedule for the week. At the end of the week you will receive a certificate which shows you successfully completed your training at the school.

My Course Activities

We at Cultural Care have always been proud of our training program. The training school, located just outside of New York, on beautiful Long Island, is the heart of this program.

My Preparation

NEW YORK TRAINING SCHOOL

My Host Family

Read more: » www.culturalcare.com/trainingschool Good to Know

The training school is the last formal step of your training, but remember that you will have many questions for your host family, after you arrive.

You should use all the resources we have provided you with, including your online account, during your au pair experience.

face-to-face ° classes ° arrive

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My Preparation My Support Network

Like other potential employers, host families might google au pair applicants. If you’re active online, understand that host families may be able to see the content you put on Facebook, Twitter, your blog or other websites. When looking at this, a host family will be evaluating whether they see you as a mature, responsible young person. As you review your “virtual life”, consider how the content you put online can impact your chances for placement.

My Course Activities

REVIEW YOUR VIRTUAL LIFE

My Host Family Good to Know

Remember to be thoughtful and respectful once you are with your host family. A frustrated facebook post after a bad day may be read and misunderstood. Imagine how you would feel, and realize your host family will feel the same.

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My Preparation

GET SET YOUR CHECKLIST M ake sure you have good insurance coverage for your time in the USA

Continue to practice your driving

M ake sure you have all of your important travel documents

Keep working on your English

Stay in touch with your host family

Get excited!

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Good to Know

Talk to Cultural Care about your flights and your visa

My Host Family

Sign up for a Get Ready workshop

ay outstanding balances P to Cultural Care and send any missing documents to your local office

My Support Network

If you haven't already done so, complete MyAuPairCourses

My Course Activities

Congratulations!

You have committed to a host family.

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» www.culturalcare.com/login

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK YOUR ONLINE ACCOUNT FOR INFORMATION ABOUT:

You have now found your perfect host family but remember, you are still strangers. Take every opportunity to stay in touch and get to know them better.

You’ll feel much more at home when you get there.

» » » » » » »

Flights Program information including program regulations Details about the Cultural Care Au Pair Training School Information on your educational component Important guidelines on traveling while in the USA Insurance related forms Information on US taxes

and your important contacts > fill out the next page

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Good to Know

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Au Pair Online Account

My Host Family

[

Your online account includes both practical and important information.

My Support Network

[

Many au pairs stop practicing their English or driving once they find a host family, but we strongly encourage you to keep up with both. Before you know it you will be speaking English all day long and driving in new surroundings and it is best to be as prepared as possible. But never be afraid to ask your host family for help.

It is better to ask than to be worried.

“ BE THE HERO OF YOUR OWN STORY.”

My Course Activities

Your local Cultural Care office will get in touch with you about your preparation, it’s important you follow their advice. Sign up for the Get Ready workshop and make your transition easier. It is filled with practical and cultural advice and has been created based on advice from many of our former au pairs.

We also strongly encourage you to review the visa process and your insurance coverage for your time in the USA.

It’s important that you finish MyAuPairCourses and the course activities in this workbook or you will not be able to fly.

The training modules have been designed to ensure you are ready for your adventure.

And to succeed at the training school, you must have completed this work in advance. These online courses are also part of the regulations made by the US Department of State.

My Preparation

THE PRACTICAL STUFF

FINISHING UP YOUR PRE-TRAVEL PREPARATION

My Preparation

IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION

My Course Activities

FILL OUT BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Please make sure to complete this section before you travel and please keep this in your hand luggage during your trip to the USA.

CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR BOSTON:

Name:

Toll-free (free calls) number +1-800-333-6056 Email: aupair@culturalcare.com

Phone: Email:

AU PAIR TRAINING SCHOOL:

Name:

St Johns University 500 Montauk Highway Oakdale, NY 11769 Arrivals / Flights emergency: +1-631-433-0137

Phone: Email:

FOLLOW US AND SHARE YOUR STORY! #culturalcare

My Host Family

LCC:

My Support Network

HOST FAMILY:

CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR IN MY HOME COUNTRY: Good to Know

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Phone:

Learn more in your online account. For specific questions, contact Erika’s claims agent directly: 1-800-783-7447 or erika@aetna.com.

Email:

EMERGENCY 24 HOURS PER DAY:

+1-800-333-6056

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SCHOOL OR UNIVERSITY DIPLOMA

DS-2019 FORM

[08] [02]

My Host Family

ERIKA INSURANCE COVERAGE

PHYSICIAN'S HEALTH EVALUATION

My Support Network

[01]

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK

[04]

My Course Activities

[05]

[07]

My Preparation

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS » CHECKLIST

PASSPORT

VISA

[06] DRIVER'S LICENSE

[03] INTERNATIONAL DRIVER'S PERMIT

Good to Know

[01]

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

YOUR VISA

[01]

Physician's Health Evaluation

[06]

Driver’s License

[05]

School or University Diploma

[07]

Criminal Background Check

GOT IT! As you prepare to depart it is very important you stay in touch with your Cultural Care office. They will reach

» I mportant: Your DS-2019 form will show valid dates for a 12 month period. You are allowed to stay an additional 30 days after the full completion of your year as an au pair. However, that additional month will NOT be included in the 12 month period shown on the form.

GOT IT!

INTERNATIONAL DRIVER’S PERMIT

[ ]

[03]

Important: if you are considering extending your au pair term for an additional 6-12 months make sure your passport is valid for at least 2.5 years.

We will require you to bring this as well as your home country license. In many states this serves as a translation of your own license and many car insurance companies will not insure you without it. You should contact the appropriate organization in your home country to organize the International Driver’s Permit as soon as you have been accepted to the program.

GOT IT!

GOT IT!

always respond.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

[08]

We all understand that having appropriate insurance coverage is important. However, you may not understand how insurance coverage works in the USA. Most likely it is very different from what you are used to in your home country.

We cannot stress enough how important it is that you fully understand what insurance coverage you have through Cultural Care Au Pair and if you may need to supplement it. Over the past 25 years we have worked with our partner Erika Travel Insurance to create customized insurance coverage options that work for our au pairs. » You are responsible for any financial commitments while in the USA and that may include costs related to medical cases or accidents. It is important that you understand what these commitments are.

» Please make sure you review all information you have received regarding insurance and ask your local Cultural Care office what options they can offer.

GOT IT!

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[ 31 ]

Good to Know

PASSPORT

as planned. Check your email and messages daily, and My Host Family

» You must keep the DS-2019 form with you for the duration of your au pair experience.

out to you to check in and make sure that you can leave

My Support Network

Once you have confirmed your host family you will receive a form called Certificate for Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status or also DS-2019 form.

This form proves you are participating in the Cultural Care Au Pair program. You will bring this form to your local American embassy to apply for your visa. It is important that you start your visa process as soon as you have received this form.

Please listen to the advice from your local Cultural Care Au Pair office. They are experts on the visa process in your country.

[04]

My Course Activities

Your Cultural Care office will inform you of all the required documents to participate in the program. We will require the following from you in order for you to depart. We will help you with all of these but please start working on them early so we can avoid any delays.

Check off the items as you get everything together

Your passport should 02 be valid for the entire period you will be in the USA plus at least six extra months.

My Preparation

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

» Your online account is also a great resource for more information about insurance coverage through Erika Travel Insurance. It's a great idea to review this with your local Cultural Care office.

My Preparation

GET EXCITED!

My Course Activities

There are many au pairs who want to share their favorite moments with YOU! Check out au pair blogs and other online story sharing platforms.

My Support Network

GET EXCITED AND: » S earch the web for fun activities in the area you will live

My Host Family

» S earch for #culturalcare and see real life stories » Start an au pair blog » C onnect with au pairs in the USA at www.facebook. com/culturalcare

Good to Know

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My Preparation

GO! YOUR CHECKLIST Fill in the contact information sheet (page 26)

Get a few small gifts for your host children

Think about what you will pack

My Host Family

Check your online account and review your flight information in the My flights section

My Support Network

Plan your goodbye party

My Course Activities

The countdown has started.

You are almost ready to go.

Talk to your parents and friends about your goals and how they can best support you through tough times

[ 35 ]

Good to Know

Your last few weeks at home will be busy.

This section will help you make sure you don't miss out on anything important.

My Course Activities

Your flights and transfers to and from your future host family are included in the benefits of the au pair program.

[ 36 ]

Good to Know

View your flight details in your online account and read more information about flights and travel under > Know before you go / Your departure.

My Host Family

Your first stop in the USA will be the Cultural Care Training School so all flights are booked into New York.

The classes at the school usually start on Tuesday morning. You might therefore depart for New York on either Sunday or Monday.

The actual date and time will be confirmed once your ticket has been issued and will be available in the flights section of your au pair online account. Once you arrive in New York, a driver will be there to take you to the training school.

My Support Network

Once you have confirmed a match with a host family you should know your approximate departure date. Our flights team can then start working on your travel arrangements. You will be able to view your flight information in your au pair online account at least 6 weeks before your departure.

You will receive a departure packet from your local Cultural Care office when your flight has been confirmed. This will include information about traveling to and arriving in the USA and details about what to expect at the training school.

My Preparation

FLIGHT AND ARRIVAL

PACKING

My Course Activities

Most likely you have never packed for a whole year before. It’s good to start thinking about what you will pack a couple of weeks before your travel date.

My Support Network

Our best advice is to only pack what you can carry yourself!

You will only need half as much as you think since you will want to buy a lot of things during your au pair term. When you pack, remember that clothing styles in the USA may be different to what you are used to wearing each day. Also remember that you want to be a role model for your host children:

My Host Family

» Don’t bring clothes that are too revealing as this is in general not how Americans dress and can attract the wrong kind of attention. »T -shirts or other clothing with curse words or very aggressive messaging might be ok in your country but when you are in a native English-speaking country, they are not appropriate.

Airlines have different restrictions on how much luggage you can bring and the size of carry-on luggage. Often there are additional fees for luggage on domestic flights and for extra pieces of luggage. You can find more information about this in your online account.

Good to Know

At the training school you will only need a small bag and your larger luggage will be put in storage. In your online account you will find great checklists for what to pack in your small and large suitcase. Please use them.

Au Pair Online Account

» Look under Know before you go / Your departure

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My Preparation

LIST

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Admit it when you don't understand something.

Let your host family know if the language is a problem. Admit if you do not understand a word or directions. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Relax- your English will improve rapidly during your first few weeks.

BE PREPARED. It's not a travel year. It's not a study year abroad. It is not glamorous. Taking care of children for 45 hours a week is hard work!

Be ready to GROW AS A PERSON. This experience teaches you to be your own best advocate, to communicate, take responsibility, improve your English, and gain self-awareness. You will make new friends from all over the world, experience American culture, and will learn something about yourself.

[04]

If you need support or help, don’t try to struggle through on your own. Talk to someone and SEEK OUT THE HELP YOU NEED. Keep in mind that communication is key.

[06]

DO NOT COMPARE. Every situation and family is different. Do not compare other au pairs’ situations with your experience.

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[05]

It is important to remember that people are individuals with qualities much deeper than the stereotypes we form.

Only when you let go of stereotypes will you truly understand the people you meet abroad.

[07]

BE A GOOD EXAMPLE. The children you care for look up to you and will act as you act and speak as you speak.

Good to Know

Ask lots of questions – asking your host parents as much as possible about what they expect is a good way to avoid misunderstandings early on. The more you ask the more you’ll know.

[02]

My Host Family

[03]

My Support Network

[01]

STAY IN TOUCH WITH YOUR LCC. Call if you cannot come to a meeting.

Most importantly, call if you have a problem. They like to hear from you.

My Course Activities

The role of an au pair is complex and unique. You live where you work and that means balancing personal, private and professional roles at the same time.

You will learn a lot about this at the training school but we want to send you on your way with some good advice:

[09]

My Preparation

TOP TEN TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR

[08]

[10]

Dive into your year. At first, you will feel nervous about a lot of things. It won’t be easy but the best thing to do is to jump right in!

MY AU PAIR CALENDAR » 45

My Support Network

MY ADVENTURE » 44

My Course Activities

These tasks are for you. They have been designed to inspire you and to help you think about what you would like to achieve as an au pair.

My Preparation

TASKS

WORK ON MY ENGLISH » 52 My Host Family

MY BUCKET LIST » 53

Good to Know

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[ 43 ]

My Course Activities

Read the questions below and answer them as well as you can.

The purpose of this task is to make you think about some of the more challenging aspects of this program. It will help you as you prepare for your adventure.

My Support Network

» Why do you want to be an au pair? What adjustments do you think you will need to make to fit into the role of an au pair?

» Mark when you think it will be most difficult to be in a foreign country » Highlight the holidays that are new to you or you are excited to celebrate and experience in the USA. Examples might be Hanukkah, Halloween, Labor Day, Fourth of July » Enter in your host children’s birthdays

[ 44 ]

[ 45 ]

Good to Know

» Enter important dates like birthdays or holidays you celebrate at home

My Host Family

TASK » MY AU PAIR CALENDAR » What will you miss most from your own family and country? What can you do to avoid feeling homesick?

My Preparation

TASK » MY ADVENTURE

» What is your plan for after you return home? How do you think your au pair experience will help prepare you for this?

04

My Host Family Good to Know

Third Monday / Presidents' Day 14 / Valentine’s Day

02

A PRIL

My Support Network

17 / St. Patrick’s Day Easter 2016

1 / New Year’s Day Third Monday / Martin Luther King Day

F E BR UA RY

My Course Activities

03

MARCH

My Preparation

01

J A N UA RY

1 / April Fool’s Day Easter 2015

08

Good to Know

Third Sunday / Father’s Day Summer vacation begins and schools close.

06

A U G U ST

My Host Family

J UN E

4 / Independence Day

My Support Network

Second Sunday / Mother’s Day Last Monday / Memorial Day

My Course Activities

07

JULY

My Preparation

05

M AY

12

Good to Know

Second Monday / Columbus Day 31 / Halloween

10

DE C E MB ER

My Host Family

OCT O B ER

11 / Veteran’s Day Fourth Thursday / Thanksgiving Day

My Support Network

First Monday / Labor Day

My Course Activities

11

N OV EMBER

My Preparation

09

S E P T E MB E R

Hanukkah and Christmas New Year’s Eve

There are great online tools available for free. Make sure to have them handy on your phone or tablet.

Translate the lyrics of your favorite English songs into your native language.

Watch some American movies or series, but only with subtitles.

[ 52 ]

Good to Know

Talk Talk Talk – use any chance you get to practice your English.

List what you would like to achieve during your au pair experience.

Remember to include both personal goals and travel goals.

[

My Host Family

Find two blogs about something you love and follow them.

Whether it’s Jay-Z or fashion, you will learn English by reading them.

“ THE JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP.”

My Support Network

Think about three states in the USA you don’t know anything about and read about them online in English.

[

My Course Activities

You will hit the ground running and no matter how good your English is, you will feel lost in the first days.

TASK » MY BUCKET LIST

My Preparation

TASK » WORK ON MY ENGLISH

[ 53 ]

HEALTH IN THE HOME AND A GUIDE TO COMMON CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES » 62

CHILDREARING IN THE USA » 66

[ 54 ]

[ 55 ]

Good to Know

AMERICAN FOOD AND CHILDHOOD NUTRITION » 64

My Host Family

THE STAGES OF CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT » 58

My Support Network

These activities will be discussed at the training school, so please work through them before you travel.

My Course Activities

During MyAuPairCourses you will be asked to complete a final activity for each course. These activities are designed to bring you closer to the real experience of being an au pair. So imagine yourself in the USA, with your host family or your host children while you work on these activities.

My Preparation

02

MY COURSE ACTIVITIES

My Preparation

My Support Network My Host Family

Good to Know

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My Course Activities

“ G ROWTH ISN’T SOMETHING THAT HAPPENS TO YOU, YOU PRODUCE IT.”

01

A way to share your native language in an age appropriate way.

A game or activity from your home country that you would like to introduce.

02

Good to Know

01

02

An aspect of your home culture that you are excited to share, for example a holiday or tradition. Can you think of one for each season?

03

My Host Family

For each child, list:

Think about your host children. Consider their ages and what you already know about their interests. How can you support your host children’s growth and development?

My Support Network

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My Course Activities

THE STAGES OF CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT » Children love learning new songs and hearing stories or fairy tales.

Spend some time collecting your favorite songs or fairy tales.

Be prepared to share, note them here in your travel kit and even pack them in your suitcase – it’ll be worth it.

My Preparation

MyAuPairCourses » activity

[ 59 ]

My Host Family

Good to Know

[ 60 ] ** Snow days happen when school can’t run as normal because of winter weather

* The seasons are Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. American children will have school breaks in Winter and Spring and longer breaks in Summer.

Remember to look for blogs or other online resources where you can find fun ideas.

My Support Network

You and your host children will have more fun and your host kids will develop new skills if you plan a wide variety of activities. List a few appropriate activities for each of the sections below.

[ 61 ]

Look up three local places you may want to visit with your host children and list the web sites below. Examples could be the local pool, library, or playground.

05

Planning special activities will keep summer vacation fun and exciting. For example you could start each day with a morning bike ride. What would you plan for the summer break?

SUMMER VACATION

04

How can you keep your host children resting and entertained if they are home unwell?

SICK DAYS

03

How would you fill an empty day with your host children?

Example: you could get a head start on a Mother’s day gift.

SNOW DAYS**

02

What kinds of arts and crafts would you like to do for holidays like Halloween or Valentine's Day?

SEASONS* OR HOLIDAYS

01

Visit the Kids Corner in your online account

My Course Activities

THE STAGES OF CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT » Here are two resources where you can find ideas from other au pairs: WWW.PINTEREST.COM/ CULTURALCARE

My Preparation

MyAuPairCourses » activity

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As an au pair, what did you learn from this?

03

In this situation what, if anything, could have been done differently to better help the au pair?

02

What did the au pair do right in this scenario?

Good to Know

01

Linda Neira, Colombia

her some tea and put VapoRub on her chest.

It was the best I could do. When my host parents came home they told me that they had given her medicine before they left and too much cough syrup can cause serious health problems."

My Host Family

"My host parents have a date night once or twice a month. One night I was watching the kids. Nora, who is 4 years old, had a cold. In the middle of the night she started to cough so much that it really scared me.

Her mom or dad didn’t answer their cell phone and I wasn’t sure if they gave her medicine or not. I didn’t, instead I made

My Support Network

Please read the testimonial and answer the questions below:

HEALTH IN THE HOME AND A GUIDE TO COMMON CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES

My Course Activities

[ 62 ]

My Preparation

MyAuPairCourses » activity

[ 01

[

Good to Know

You will find a measurement conversion chart in the back of your Travel Kit on page 108.

My Host Family

Think about the benefits that come from cooking with your host children. What can you gain? What can your host child learn?

02

Pick at least one typical dish from your home country and write down the recipe in English, using American measurements. The dish can be one that you think your host children will enjoy, or the dish you will miss the most. You will have the opportunity to share your ideas with other au pairs at the training school.

02

My Support Network

Clear communication with your host parents is so important. Talking about every detail, whether big or small, will help you feel more confident as an au pair. And that confidence will make it easier to make responsible decisions.

AMERICAN FOOD AND CHILDHOOD 01 NUTRITION This is a two-part activity, be sure to complete both parts.

We will discuss this assignment together at the au pair training school.

My Course Activities

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My Preparation

MyAuPairCourses » activity

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[ 67 ] NAME :

NAME :

NAME :

NAME :

NAME :

We will discuss different ways to handle behavior challenges at the au pair training school.

Think about the children in your host family. Consider their ages and what you already know about them. What are the common behavior challenges that children experience at this age? What difficult situations might come up? List at least two challenges for each child.

01

Think about your own childhood. How were you raised?

What values did your parents teach you? Write down three important lessons you learned as a child that have shaped who you are today.

Good to Know

02

My Host Family

01

My Support Network

CHILDREARING IN THE USA

02

Every family is different and has different ideas about the best way to raise their child. Your host parents might make decisions about their household that you don’t agree with, but you will need to respect those decisions. Remember that you are part of a parenting team that wants the best for everyone in your household.

My Course Activities

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My Preparation

MyAuPairCourses » activity

My Course Activities My Support Network My Host Family Good to Know

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We hope you will have the time of your life as an au pair.

However, even when you are having a fantastic experience, you are likely to face challenges such as homesickness, having difficult conversations or unanswered questions.

You will find a lot of helpful information and useful tools in your online account but know that you also have a large network of people around you to help.

My Preparation

03

MY SUPPORT NETWORK

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My Preparation

COMMU NICAT ION IS KEY. Americans have a very charitable and helpful culture.

The best way to get help in the USA is to ask specifically for help, rather than just telling someone you are unhappy with a situation.

My Support Network

YOUR BOSTON OFFICE SUPPORT

Your host family will want to make your stay a success.

You will live and work with them, so be open and share both your excitement and your challenges. If you have concerns or if you are having a difficult time, you should always try to speak with your host family as soon as you notice something. Problems don’t go away on their own – they just tend to get worse.

At the training school we will help you get comfortable with having these conversations.

Cultural Care has the largest support network in the USA and we call our local representatives Local Childcare Consultants or LCCs. Each LCC works with the au pairs and host families within a certain area. Beyond your host family, your LCC will be the most important person you will get to know as an au pair. Learn more about your connection with your LCC on the next page.

If you have a serious concern that you don’t feel your LCC can solve for you, your program director would be the next person to contact.

A program director works with a region, several LCCs and groups of au pairs. They are there as an additional resource when you need it.

In addition to your program director you can call or email our Boston office for general questions like visa, flights or insurance coverage.

Cultural Care Au Pair Boston: Toll-free (free calls) number: +1-800-333-6056 Email: aupair@culturalcare.com

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Ricarda from Austria

"You owe it to yourself to make this the best year it can possibly be. And sometimes that means letting us know that you are not happy or that things aren’t going well. Don’t wait too long if you are not feeling good about something."

Cassie Cortese, Program Director

Au Pair Online Account Learn more about the CCAP support network in your online account under > Make it a successful stay / Your support network in the USA. You can find all the contact details in your online account as well. > All about me and my host family / My support contacts _________

» www.culturalcare.com/login

[ 71 ]

Good to Know

YOUR LOCAL CHILDCARE CONSULTANT (LCC)

My Host Family

"Speak about problems right away. Host parents are people like everybody else, be polite and say if something bothers you - they might not be aware of the issues that make you unhappy."

YOUR HOST FAMILY

My Course Activities

Most of your communication so far has been with your local Cultural Care office in your home country.

They will remain in contact with our office in the USA throughout your stay. And you are always welcome to call them before, during or after your stay. However, once you arrive in the USA, you will have a bigger local network whose job it is to help you.

My Preparation

IM P O RTA N T: If you cannot reach your LCC and you require immediate assistance, or if you would like to talk with someone other than your LCC, please contact the Boston office at 1-800-333-6056.

My Support Network

Before you travel to the USA, you have your local support in your home country through the Cultural Care Au Pair local representative. This may be the person that hosted your information meeting or helped you with your application process. You can expect the same local support in the USA. Your Local Childcare Consultant or LCC will be your primary support contact, and you should feel free to call him or her with any questions or concerns you may have in your day-to-day life as an au pair.

The LCC works with you and your host family to provide you with support and information throughout your time in the USA. Because the LCC lives in the area he or she may already know your host family and will definitely be able to help you with information about your new surroundings. Each LCC works with several au pairs so he/she will also introduce you to other Cultural Care au pairs in your area.

My Course Activities

YOUR LOCAL CHILDCARE CONSULTANT

Here are a few ways that you will connect with your LCC:

MONTHLY AU PAIR MEETINGS

STAY IN TOUCH

Your LCC will call you and your host family within 48 hours of your arrival to your host family’s home. The purpose of this call is for the LCC to introduce him/herself to you and welcome you to the community, and to answer any immediate questions you may have.

Your LCC will meet with you and your host family within 2 weeks of your arrival to the host family’s home. This is to give you a little time to settle in and start to get to know your host family and community and to start to experience life as an au pair. At the orientation meeting you will get advice on settling in and adjusting and also receive some local information on your area. Your LCC will also provide you with a list of other au pairs in the area and share their contact information.

Reach out to other au pairs as soon as you can. Sharing your experiences and getting advice from other au pairs is both helpful and rewarding. Also, remember to be a good friend when new au pairs arrive to your area.

Your LCC will arrange monthly meetings for you and the other au pairs in the group.

Some meetings will be very informal and discussion-oriented; some may include a guest speaker or a social event. There may be times when you all go out to a restaurant, or attend a sports event. Be prepared that you may be required to contribute $5-10 for a meeting if an activity like this is arranged.

The monthly meetings are a required part of the program and you must attend. But they are also a great time for socializing, meeting other au pairs and a good opportunity for you to get to know your LCC better and talk about any problems or concerns you may have.

Stay in touch with your LCC between monthly meetings and let him or her know how you are doing. Your LCC is there to help and support you in any way he/she can.

Developing a good relationship with your LCC is important. By simply sending a text message every week or connecting with him/ her on Facebook to give a quick update, you will get to know each other and your LCC will be better able to support you if you need it.

» You may be facing a challenge that you’re not certain how to handle.

Don’t know how to bring something up with your host parents? Turn to your LCC to ask for advice.

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[ 73 ]

Good to Know

WELCOME ORIENTATION

My Host Family

WELCOME CALL

New York

Emily Brazell, LCC for over 12 years in Tappahannock, Virginia

[ 75 ]

Good to Know

"I am a partner to the families and the au pairs. I am an extra part of the team. I truly believe that the au pair - host family relationship works best when they are partners together and I am an outside part of that team. I am the coach for that team and they don’t need me all the time to play their game. When they need my help, either the host family or the au pair can contact me and I give them some coaching tips, especially gained from my experience."

My Host Family

Jennifer Yoel, LCC for almost 7 years in Westchester County,

My Support Network

"I am a friend to my au pairs, trying to give honest advice. I help them through good times and bad times and I am there to support them. When you arrive to the USA, it’s really important for you to remember that your LCC is there for you, that I am a bridge between you and your host family."

My Course Activities

< < < S usan Kurtz, host mom and LCC for over 5 years in Great Falls, Virginia

My Preparation

"I try to give my au pairs the tools to go back to their host family and deal with the issue or concern. I want to help you solve your problems directly with your host family. I don’t run back to your host family to tell them what you have said."

My Course Activities

Meeting your host family for the first time is an exciting experience. However, it can also be mixed with nervous emotions. Remember it’s new for all of you and will take some adjustment.

During the first week you have the perfect chance to show that you want to be a part of the family and learn how you can best support your host family and work as a team.

My Support Network My Host Family

BONDING » 80

INITIATIVE » 82

TOPICS TO DISCUSS » 84

You will expect to “click” right away with your host family but that may not happen.

That’s okay, it’s normal.

Give it some time and work on your relationship.

Read about some tips on how to start bonding with your host family.

By taking initiative you will show your host family that you are engaged and committed to their family.

Read suggestions from our host families on how you can lend a helping hand right away.

You will have a hundred questions for your host family when you arrive.

The suggested discussion topics on these pages are designed to help structure some of those questions.

[ 77 ]

Good to Know

[ 76 ]

My Preparation

04

MY HOST FAMILY

My Preparation My Course Activities

“ F AMILY IS NOT ABOUT BLOOD. IT'S ABOUT WHO IS WILLING TO HOLD YOUR HAND WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST.”

My Support Network My Host Family Good to Know

[ 78 ]

BONDING

[

– Barbara from Italy

My Support Network

Your first week in your new home will fly by if you let it, but it is also an important bonding time for you and your host family. Here is a list of activities that you can try to plan for the first week to help you start develop relationships with your host family and your LCC.

» Spend some special time with each of your host children. » Call at least one new friend.

» Prepare a dish from your home country or bake a traditional desert. » Make sure to share one new thing you’ve learned or discovered every day with your host family, they will be excited to hear it.

»T ake your first family photo with your host family. »C all your LCC once after the first week even if you just tell them you are doing well.

My Host Family

» Have coffee with your host mother.

My Course Activities

[

Bonding is the process of developing a close, interpersonal relationship.

My Preparation

“It’s true that the beginning can be hard and you must be ready to adapt to your host family routine and lifestyle. But as the time passes by (or flies in my case) the kids learn how to love you and you do the same.”

Good to Know

TIPS

*

Don’t spend too much time talking to friends and family back home during your first weeks. Instead, engage with your host family and your new friends and community. It will help you settle in more quickly.

*

Share your personal life with your host family. Tell them where you are going and who you are meeting. They will worry about you and being open with them will help build trust.

[ 80 ]

My Preparation

INITIATIVE “In the last snowstorm, I was out shoveling and my au pair came out with my boys with shovels and we all got the job done in half the time!”

My Course Activities

Taking the initiative is sometimes difficult in new surroundings but your host family will look to you to start taking responsibility very quickly. Here are suggestions from our host families for how you can show initiative in your new home:

– Marcia, host mom in Chicago

2 Tidy the play areas after you are done.

5 If their previous au pair is in the home you may feel insecure, but step forward.

They will want to see you taking over the responsibility.

We have selected you to be a Cultural Care au pair because we believe you have the right attitude to be successful on this program. Be confident, if nothing else simply say “I want to help, how can I help?”

[ 82 ]

Good to Know

4 Come prepared with ideas for age appropriate meals and discuss them with your host parents.

7 Schedule some time with them to discuss all practical matters including safety and health related issues. You will find suggested meeting topics in this section.

My Host Family

3 Come prepared with suggestions for activities with the children, rather than just asking what they want to do.

6 Talk to your host parents about rules for social media. Assume that they will not want you to post pictures of their children.

They will appreciate that you have asked them.

My Support Network

1 Check the children’s rooms every day for laundry.

My Preparation

TOPICS TO DISCUSS

My Course Activities

You should make sure that you and your host parents schedule some time during your first two weeks to discuss the topics below. By doing so you will be better prepared to handle new situations every day and you will be a better support to your host family.

DON'T HOLD BACK

[

My Host Family

[

My Support Network

You will find more discussion point in your online account under > Life as an au pair

Good to Know

[â&#x20AC;&#x2020;84â&#x20AC;&#x2020;]

My Preparation

NOTES

My Course Activities

PRACTICAL MATTERS It is important that you agree on the following practical items with your host parents to ensure that there are no misunderstandings.

INTERNET AND TELEPHONE USAGE

Discuss on which day you will receive your stipend and agree on how to handle any costs for activities.

Make sure to discuss if there are any restrictions regarding the use of internet and/or the home and cell phone.

HOUSEHOLD RULES Every family and home have their own set of rules; make sure you understand what household rules apply in your new home e.g. curfew.

Your host family may have received a communication log from Cultural Care Au Pair and if they have not then suggest that you use a notebook to write down weekly schedules and to communicate about the day. Start by reviewing your first week’s schedule.

You are required to attend a monthly meeting with your LCC. Discuss this with your host parents and what transportation will be required.

CAR SAFETY

CAR USAGE

TAKING DAYS OFF

Make sure to plan time with your host family to review the car, its instruments, and safety features.

This is a good time to discuss if you will have access to the family car and what rules apply.

Make sure your host family has included you in their car insurance.

It’s never too early to discuss how to handle vacation and sick days.

Good to Know

MONTHLY MEETINGS My Host Family

SCHEDULE AND COMMUNICATION

» Check with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to find out how to obtain your state driver’s license.

My Support Network

STIPEND AND ACTIVITY COSTS

For information regarding the program regulations, including weekly stipends and scheduled hours allowed, go to your online account > Program Details and Practical Information.

Au Pair Online Account » www.culturalcare.com/login

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[ 87 ]

It’s a good idea to talk to your host parents on a regular basis. Why not start a routine of weekly meetings? Use the time to share all your thoughts or concerns, no matter how small they may seem.

Whether on duty or in your free time, you should feel prepared to approach driving in the USA with confidence. Driving is one of the most important things that you will do. Take the time to sit down and discuss car usage and related topics – this will be critical to keeping yourself and the kids safe.

GOOD OR BAD,KNOWING THAT YOU HAVE SET ASIDE SOME TIME TO TALK ABOUT WHATEVER IS GOING ON WILL:

SOME TOPICS TO COVER IN YOUR MEETINGS MIGHT BE:

[ 88 ]

2 Be sure you understand any family rules about car use – expectations on cleanliness, car curfew, guests, mileage or gas, etc.

3 Your LCC will meet with you within 14 days of arriving to your host family. This is a great time to ask any questions about insurance coverage and getting your state driver’s license.

4 It’s all new to you – go for a drive with your host family to get a sense of the area and where you will spend the most time driving.

[ 89 ]

Good to Know

» H ow did the past week go (for both you and your host family)? » How is the schedule working? Will there be any changes next week? » How are the kids adapting? » How are you feeling being away from home? » Anything else going on?

1 Don’t be afraid to ask your host family questions about driving their automobile, they want you to feel comfortable and confident.

My Host Family

» K eep the lines of communication open between you and your host family » Make it easier and more natural to talk about problems that occur » Let you and your host parents feel more confident each day

T IP S

My Support Network

And don’t hold back on the good stuff!

Talking about what works well now can make it easier to talk about the problems that occur later.

My Course Activities

DRIVING IN THE USA

My Preparation

WEEKLY MEETINGS

In many places around the world you would immediately go to a hospital to get help, especially during weekends or evenings. In the United States you have access to many more types of facilities that are usually both less expensive for you and that will be a more pleasant experience than the emergency room. Ask you host parents how walkin clinics work.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR HOST PARENTS: If any of your host children have allergies, make sure you understand how to help the child in case of an allergic reaction.

everything related to your host children’s health to your host parents.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR INFANTS:

Tel and address:

Or, you can find the closest clinic on the Aetna website at this link www.culturalcare.com/doctors

» D oes ______________ easily get diaper rash and how do you treat it? » Does he/she have cradle cap and if so do you want me to do anything or do you simply leave it? » Does ______________ have colic or has he/she ever had a febrile seizure? Please explain how you handle it so I can help in the best way.

Remember that caring for a child with colic can be stressful and it’s important to stay calm.

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[ 91 ]

Good to Know

Remember to communicate

LOCAL WALK-IN CLINIC OR URGENT CARE CLINIC

My Host Family

You will want to have a good understanding of your host parents' approach when it comes to their children’s health. Remember that it may be different from yours, but you must respect their wishes.

» C an you explain how the children’s insurance works? What do I need to know? » How do you want to hear any “sick updates”? » In what instance do you want to be contacted immediately?

And when is it okay to let you know later? » Who decides whether the children stay home sick from school? » What is in the medicine cabinet and which medication is okay to give to the children? » Where do you keep a first aid kit? Is there one in the car? » Please tell me about the children’s medical history. Do they have any allergies? Are the children more likely to get a certain sickness? » What else should I know? » When one of the children starts feeling unwell are there usually clear signs that you can share with me?

My Support Network

Complete the following sections together with your host parents during the first week or two. You will want to be prepared if a child feels unwell.

My Course Activities

IN CASE YOU FEEL UNWELL

My Preparation

HEALTH-RELATED TOPICS TO DISCUSS

Au Pair Online Account » www.culturalcare.com/login

» Keep one copy with you at all times. » Add all phone numbers to your phone as soon as possible.

POISON CONTROL Tel:

PEDIATRICIAN: Tel: Address:

Tel: Address:

My Host Family

DENTIST:

My Support Network

» One copy in the kitchen or other location where you can easily find it.

My Course Activities

One of the most important things for you to do once you have arrived in your new home is to make sure you complete this section. Your host family may have lists set up for you already and we strongly recommend that you make several copies.

My Preparation

FILL OUT WITH YOUR HOST FAMILY

LOCAL HOSPITAL: Tel:

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Good to Know

Address:

Good to Know

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My Host Family

» Cut, fill out and keep in your wallet at all times.

My Support Network

911

My Course Activities

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY CALL

My Preparation

Safety First!

1 At what times do the children normally eat?

10 Discuss general nutrition guidelines for the children.

2 Do the children have a favorite food?

4 Are there special diets or certain foods to avoid?

6 What about snacking, what is allowed and when?

7 How much should the children eat at each meal?

11 Review how to safely prepare the child’s food.

INFANT SPECIFIC NUTRITION INFORMATION Feeding infants requires special consideration.

If you are caring for infants be sure to discuss these topics with your host parents: » Is the baby breastfed, will the mother pump milk using a breast pump each day? » Is the baby given formula? What kind and what amount? » How much should a baby eat and when? » Should the baby be eating baby food or foods that are pureed or mashed? » Does the family have a history of allergies? » Is there a plan for when the baby should start eating solid foods?

There are lots of different types of food allergies that you have to think about, not only for your own host kids, but if friends are coming over and want a snack, you might need to think about whether that food is okay for them to eat.

– Theresa from Germany

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Good to Know

5 Are the children allowed to have treats or sweets after the meal? How much?

9 What about other food related responsibilities?

My Host Family

3 Do the children have any food allergies?

8 How do you prefer that I handle times when the children don’t want to eat?

My Support Network

» Check page 110 in chapter 5 of your Travel Kit. Here you will find 4 simple steps to food safety.

My Course Activities

Even though your host family is in charge of the children’s diet, you will have a role in deciding what the children eat each day. No matter what age the children are, it is important to talk about what your host family expects.

My Preparation

DAILY MEALS: ROUTINES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

My Preparation

You and your host parents form a team of caregivers and it’s important that you understand how your host parents want their children to be supported and raised. Here are some topics to discuss with them.

As you have learned in MyAuPairCourses each child is unique in their development and will always be working towards their next big step or milestone.

How do you usually reinforce good behavior and how would you like me to handle poor or bad behavior?

Is there a certain approach that works best for each child?"

Are there any behavioral challenges you are facing right now with the children where I can focus extra attention?

» Stay calm, stay consistent and always be patient.

A milestone is a significant event or point in a child's development.

[

How can you help them reach their next milestone? Ask your host family. » W hat is the next thing you hope your children will learn to do? » I s there any area they are struggling with that I can help them develop in?

Good to Know

» Keep your host parents updated on the progress your host children are making.

You will be amazed to see the changes in the children’s development each day.

By discussing all of the topics in this section with your host parents you will be better prepared to meet challenges in your daily au pair life. You will also make a stronger team of caregivers with your host parents.

[ 98 ]

My Host Family

» R emember that behavior management strategies will be different in every family. As an au pair you must reinforce the rules and values of your host family.

[

My Support Network

STAGES OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT

My Course Activities

HOST FAMILY THOUGHTS ON CHILDREARING AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

[ 99 ]

My Course Activities My Support Network My Host Family Good to Know

[ 100 ]

This section is full of the practical details and extra essentials that can make for a smoother day-to-day.

From tips on dealing with homesickness to local conversion charts, we hope you make great use of these resources.

Inside you also have space for your own notes, so you can create your own easy to reference guide that you'll want to keep on hand at all times.

My Preparation

05

GOOD TO KNOW

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My Preparation

My Course Activities

“SOMETIMES, THE SMALLEST THINGS TAKE UP THE MOST ROOM IN YOUR HEART.”

My Support Network My Host Family

Good to Know

My Preparation

AMERICAN SLANG Relax, chill, have fun doing nothing

BREAK A LEG

If we want to be at the pool by lunchtime we better hit the road!

Should we go out, or do you just want to hang out at home?

You'll do great, break a leg!

UNDER THE WEATHER

ON CLOUD NINE

TO HAVE A BLAST

In the best mood ever

The most fun ever

There is so much great stuff planned for our vacation, we are going to have a blast.

HOLD YOUR HORSES

PIECE OF CAKE

TAKE FOR GRANTED

We have to wait until the glue dries, hold your horses.

It's a piece of cake, you'll understand it when you get started.

[ 104 ]

Assume something will always be there I always ask questions instead of taking things for granted.

BUMMER

Reacting to some bad news By the time we got to the front of the line it was sold out, such a bummer.

GET OUT OF HERE I don't believe it

She said WHAT? Get out of here.

I'M ALL EARS

You have my full attention, I'm listening Tell me everything, I'm all ears.

GOTCHA

24/7

Oh, gotcha! We meet at 9 in the evening and not in the morning.

I can always contact my LCC, she is available 24/7.

I 'got' you, I understand

All the time 24 hours/day and 7days/week

LOL

TLC

BFF

ASAP

FYI

OMG

Laughing out loud

As soon as possible

Tender loving care

For your information

[ 105 ]

Best friend forever

Oh my God!

Good to Know

Everything is going SO well, I'm on cloud nine!

Easy, simple to do

Tell a secret or give away all the information You have been so secretive, it's time to spill the beans.

I'm a bit under the weather and not feeling 100%.

Slow down a bit

SPILL THE BEANS

My Host Family

Sick and not feeling so well

Another way to say good luck

My Support Network

HIT THE ROAD HANG OUT

My Course Activities

Get moving, usually out the door

My Preparation

YOUR PERSONAL DICTIONARY You will probably hear people say many things you have never heard before. Learn as you go and make a list of the new words and phrases.

TRANSLATION

ENGLISH

TRANSLATION

My Course Activities

ENGLISH

My Support Network My Host Family Good to Know

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[ 107 ]

My Preparation

LEARNING THE SYSTEM

My Course Activities

What does 65° Fahrenheit feel like? How many miles is 5 kilometers?

Get in the USA state of mind.

My Support Network

TEMPERATURE

ELECTRICAL 120 V / 60 Hz

LENGTH

To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, first subtract 32, then multiply by 5/9

WEIGHT ≈

2.54 centimeters

1 ounce

≈

1 foot

≈

0.3 meters

1 pound ≈

1 yard

≈

0.9 meters

1 mile

≈

1.6 kilometers

28.4 grams

32º F

≈

0º C

0.45 kilograms

50º F

≈

10º C

61º F

≈

16º C

72º F

≈

22º C

82º F

≈

28º C

If you want to fit your electrical appliances from home into the wall in the USA, you will need a plug adapter.

As for voltage, most of the latest electronics (like phones and laptops) automatically work in any country, but for some things (like hair dryers) you may need a voltage converter.

Average body temperature: 98.6º F ≈ 37º C

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[ 109 ]

Good to Know

1 inch

My Host Family

MEASUREMENTS

3 / COOK

4 / CHILL

INGREDIENTS

My Support Network

2 / SEPERATE

DIRECTIONS

My Course Activities

1 / CLEAN

MY FAVORITE RECIPE

My Preparation

4 SIMPLE STEPS TO FOOD SAFETY

My Host Family Good to Know

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[ 111 ]

My Preparation

TIMEZONES The continental USA is divided into four time zones.

My Course Activities

WA S H I N G T O N

Seattle Ol

P

tla

S

a

Va

a e

e

NORTH D A K O TA

Sale

Hele a

M O N TA N A

B

MAINE

a

A

OREGON

M

M I N N E S O TA e

St

IDAHO SOUTH D A K O TA

M

P e e

ea

C

Pa l

l

M l a

I O WA

Ca Sa Sa

F a

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C e e

U TA H

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L

Det

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el

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Ka

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ILLINOIS

C t

l

Je

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St

C t

at

F a

t

CALIFORNIA

WEST VIRGINIA

R

N

KENTUCKY

MISSOURI

Rale

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A

Sa ta Fe

ele

Sa

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Na

OKLAHOMA

ARIZONA O la

NEW MEXICO

NORTH CAROLINA

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C a l tte

TENNESSEE

a C t

Me

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Dalla

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MISSISSIPPI

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Ja

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ALABAMA

TEXAS

PACIFIC TIME – PT

Sa

GMT-8

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Ja Bat

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Good to Know

LOUISIANA

Talla a

lle

ee

O la

t Ta

a

FLORIDA

MOUNTAIN TIME – MT

We t Pal

GMT-7

M a

CENTRAL TIME – CT GMT-6

EASTERN TIME – ET GMT-5

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l

SOUTH CAROLINA

Atla t a

ARKANSAS

al

A

M A RY L A N D

VIRGINIA

C a le t

lle

L

a

D E L AWA R E

Washington D.C.

OHIO

la el t

NEW JERSEY

My Host Family

L

KANSAS

Da t C

INDIANA

e

CONNECTICUT Te t

Ha

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RHODE ISLAND

Y

P E N N S Y LVA N I A

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MASSACHUSETTS P

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COLORADO

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NEW YORK

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NEBRASKA

NEW HAMPSHIRE

VERMONT

WISCONSIN

WYOMING

Salt La e C t

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My Support Network

B

ta

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Bea

My Preparation

MONEY FACTS

TIPS FOR TIPPING Unlike other parts of the world, in the USA service is not always included in the bill. That means that service providers, for example a waiter at a restaurant, depend on tips as income. Tipping is expected but can change depending on where you live in the USA and the type of services you use. You should plan to tip between 10 and 20%. Ask your host family or friends for the local standard.

PAPER 1c

$1

Nickel

5c

$5

Dime

10c

$10

Quarter

25c

$20

Half Dollar

50c

$50

Silver Dollar

1$

$100

Golden Dollar

1$

$500

Some stores will not take bills larger than $50. Ask for small bills from the bank when withdrawing money.

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My must have groceries $35

Movies $12

Museum/cultural event $15

Yoga class $15

Urban outfitters shopping spree » Jeans $65 » Converse sneakers $50 » Sunglasses $18

Dinner out at the Cheesecake Factory $30

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Good to Know

Penny

My Host Family

COINS

My Support Network

WHAT DOES MY STIPEND GET ME? HERE ARE A FEW ITEMS AND WHAT THEY COST IN THE USA.

My Course Activities

Learn about the value of American money and how expensive or inexpensive items are in the USA.

My Preparation My Course Activities

THE TYPICAL ADJUSTMENT CYCLE Homesickness can appear at different times and is not always easy to notice.

There is no quick fix. But remember, you are not alone. Many other au pairs are probably having the same feelings. Everyone experiences it differently, but it can look something like this:

My Support Network

ADJUSTING

PUSHING BACK

FITTING IN

GOING HOME

Everything seems exciting, interesting and new. You’ve heard the stories from real au pairs but your experience is going to be even more amazing.

At some point, you will feel a bit out of place. You might feel lost or lonely in your new home. Small mistakes and misunderstandings really bring you down. It might be easier to feel frustrated than motivated.

Your routine is familiar. Feeling relaxed and confident makes all the difference. You find what makes you happy in your new surroundings. You start to enjoy life in your new country.

You are more comfortable, but you start to question some parts of the culture. Back home, everything is perfect.

Here, you are away from everything you understand and the people who understand you.

Don’t give up. It just takes time and the right attitude.

You see what your new environment has to offer. Things make sense. And that feels really good. You might even feel like a native. You can be proud of yourself for accepting these challenges.

You will have mixed feelings about returning to your own country. You will bring what you learned and experienced in the USA into your new life and career. But you will feel sad to leave your new family and friends.

Check your online account for tips on dealing with homesickness.

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Good to Know

CULTURE SHOCK

My Host Family

HONEYMOON STAGE

My Preparation

NOTES

My Course Activities

My Support Network My Host Family

Good to Know

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My Preparation

NOTES

My Course Activities

My Support Network My Host Family

Good to Know

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My Preparation

“Working as an au pair, facing all the challenges knowledge about myself and the world I live in.

I see the world with new eyes thanks to all the new people from different countries with

My Course Activities

and living in another country has improved my

different cultures that I've met. It's made me

and understanding and that if more people travel or get exposed to new cultures it creates an open-minded environment which would make

My Support Network

more curious about the world and how other people live their lives. I've learned about respect

the world a better place for us all.

experience. They're honest, bright and loving.

You give one, and you get a hundred back. They show that life doesn't need to be complicated,

My Host Family

Taking care of children has been such a giving

which has helped me to not take life too seriously. later it will be all right. Being an au pair has been the greatest experience of my life.”

Hanna from Sweden

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Good to Know

It's alright to fail or feel down, cause sooner or

My Preparation

My Course Activities

“OH, THE PLACES YOU'LL GO”

My Support Network My Host Family

Good to Know

WWW.CULTURALCARE.COM #CULTURALCARE

Cultural Care Au Pair is part of the EF Education First family EF Education First is an international education company focusing on language, academics and cultural experience with 500 offices and schools in over 52 countries around the world. We at Cultural Care Au Pair share EF´s mission in opening the world through education. Learn more about EF under: www.ef.com