AU PAIR IN THE USA Personal growth & cultural exchange
Part of the EF Education First family
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CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
EXPERIENCE AMERICA AS AN AU PAIR To be an au pair means many things, but what you will gain from the experience will change your life. Becoming an au pair is a once in a lifetime opportunity to dive into another culture and truly live the local life for 12-24 months. You’ll discover America while living with a host family and providing full-time childcare.
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ALL PHOTOGRAPHY IN THIS BROCHURE FEATURE OUR VERY OWN CULTURAL CARE AU PAIRS AND HOST FAMILIES
The bonds you’ll create As an au pair, you will become a big sister or brother, a daughter or son, a friend, and a mentor - all whilst caring for your host children. Together, you will share one another’s cultures, exploring language, food, special celebrations and life’s simple pleasures. The relationships you build are lifelong and like no other. The places you’ll go During your time, you can join an American college, exploring classes while making local friends, some of who will become friends for life. You can spend your free time travelling and exploring the USA with your new friends, host family or by yourself.
The difference you’ll make Daily, you will play a huge role in the happiness and well-being of your host children’s lives. You will share so many milestones together; from first words, to first steps, or the first day at school. Our au pairs say there is nothing more rewarding than knowing they played a major role in the children’s personal development and molding of their future.
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– TEP
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LIVE. LEARN. SHARE. Cultural Exchange
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“I BECAME A UTAHN� Families are everything in Utah, even the extended family! It was tradition on Sundays to have a full table with aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and friends together. I loved Sundays! Utah is incredibly beautiful; my house looked out over the Salt Lake Valley (a very mountainous region) and most weekends, my family and I spent boating on Lake Powell whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Mari (18), au pair in Utah
Homeland Finland
Destination Salt Lake City
Host Family 4 kids + Luke the dog and Gringo the frog
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CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
Travelling, reading and watching films just scrape the surface of understanding a culture. To become part of a culture is to live it. Sharing moments with the locals and discovering the culture through children and family life is what au pairs experience. This is the true meaning of cultural exchange.
Every state in America has its individualities from the locals’ accents to specialties in food, views on life, local traditions and of course the scenery and landscapes. Au pairs from different states will experience a very different culture from that of another au pair.
See more of real au pair experiences in the USA. #CULTURALCARE
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1 Laurina, au pair in California 2 Madeline, au pair in New York 3 Iiaria, au pair in Colorado 4 Mattia, au pair in Texas 5 Isa, au pair in New York 6 Poonyawee, au pair in New Jersey
“I BECAME A MASSACHUSITE” I would take weekly classes at a local college in Boston, the student life was incredible. I was always meeting new people who would take me to cool student events that I had never experienced before. Boston is an amazing food hub, but what makes it really special is the seafood culture. My family taught me how to cook the most delicious New England Clam Chowder, which we would cook up in big pots so we had enough for the next day.
Lhee (23), au pair in Massachusetts
Homeland Thailand
Destination Boston
Host Family 3 kids + Taylor the Honeybadger
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YOUR AU PAIR TRAVEL Being an au pair means you’ll have the opportunity to live, work and travel in the USA. Plan weekend trips, celebrate festive holidays or take a road trip with friends – you’ll become a local!
AFFORDABLE TRAVEL
WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR TRAVEL TIME?
Travel is very attainable as an au pair; being in the USA for up to 24 months gives you time to plan trips and save money. You’ll learn where the best places are to visit through living as a local and not just a tourist.
Our au pairs love to use their travel time to really explore America. You could get the wind in your hair and take a road trip with friends; city hop to see the best monuments; or get in touch with your natural side and discover what the American nature has to offer.
THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES – AMERICA! America is a vibrant country with something for everyone. From its breathtaking natural wonders, like the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls, to its world famous cities. America is a country rich in culture and places to see. This is your chance to explore it!
CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
FLORIDA – ADVENTURES IN THE SUNSHINE STATE This 8-day all inclusive trip will take you to Florida’s top attractions, including Walt Disney World, where you can meet your favourite childhood characters. Explore Universal Studios in Orlando, where you can walk through film sets and see how all the iconic TV series and movies were produced. Get in touch with your natural side and take an airboat ride in the Everglades National Park, spotting wildlife like alligators. Finally, you’ll have time in Miami to do some shopping and relax on the white sandy beaches.
LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, GRAND CANYON An 8-day adventure of Los Angeles and the American Southwest. You’ll enjoy your first few days in the entertainment capital of the world, LA. From here, spend an evening on the famous Vegas strip and take a River Float Trip down Black Canyon. Stop off at the Grand Canyon and get that iconic photo. Then, you’ll visit one of the last homesteads left in Arizona, an amazing example of early farming in America. Finally, see how Native Americans lived over 600 years ago in preserved cliff dwellings in Beaver Creek.
DISCOVERY TOURS Cultural Care Discovery Tours are tailor made for 18-28 year olds that want to
explore amazing America. Our tours are a great way to see a whole lot of places, hassle free - everything is organised. You can travel with friends and explore California, Florida and Hawaii.
CHECK OUT OUR FULL ITINERARIES ONLINE WWW.DISCOVERYTOURS.CULTURALCARE.COM
HAWAII – THE ISLAND STATE Spend 7 sun-splashed days in Hawaii. This is truly the nature lovers paradise. Spend your first days hiking a volcano and visiting Pearl Harbor to brush up on your World War II history. You’ll take a trip up to the north shore and visit one of the states largest pineapple plantations, along with a walk through a lush rainforest. Spend your final days learning about the Polynesian culture with a local Hawaiian dance with dinner. During your stay you’ll have lots of extra time to enjoy the sun on Waikiki beach and shop at the local stores.
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YOUR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION Studying at an American college is a visa-compulsory
FUNDING YOUR STUDIES
component of the au pair programme. Studying
Your host family will provide up to US$ 500 towards classes of your choice. You will need to complete a minimum of six academic credits during your stay. Choices of classes and subjects are endless; there are classes for everyone, from sciences to arts and languages.
abroad adds something outstanding to your CV and allows you to experience a typical American college plus the opportunity to meet local friends.
KEEP A BLOG!
Depending on your subject and college choices, the provided funding of US$ 500 will only cover a certain amount of your six credits.
All companies value skills in social media and web. Your blog will also keep your family and friends happy and updated on your incredible adventures and daily life in the USA.
EXPLORE YOUR INTERESTS
SKILLS AU PAIRS DEVELOP
Studying abroad is a great way to explore your future through trying different subjects you’re interested in. Many au pairs use this opportunity to take a class they might not have access to in their home country.
Recent survey among former au pairs revealed:
81%
improved their communication
83%
found it easier to adapt to new environments
85%
became more responsible
90%
gained confidence and independence
CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
BUILDING YOUR FUTURE Formal education is always important, but experience and skills you acquire outside the classroom make you stand out in a competitive global job market. Taking in all the elements of the au pair experience will help you create a new skill set, making you highly employable for your future, while having fun. To optimise benefits:
» Put travel on your CV Listing travel on your CV shows many things that future employers want to see. You will acquire important key skills such as negotiation, independence and cultural understanding.
» Create connections During your time in the USA you will meet dynamic people from all walks of life. These people are the start of your personal and professional network. Being in an unfamiliar environment, you will go out of your comfort zone and meet people you wouldn’t expect to impact your life.
Grow your network. Become part of the Cultural Care Au Pair Alumni on LinkedIn.
» » » » » » » » »
Responsibility Flexibility Networking Cross-cultural understanding Decision-making Self-sufficiency and independence Confidence Communication Adaptability
“In my second year I became more confident in the USA, I took more classes to complement my studies. Now I work in business administration and accounting.” Natalia, au pair in Illinois
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WE ARE... an organisation filled with passionate people from all over the world, devoted to creating unforgettable experiences for young people. We’ve helped over 100,000 young people travel to the USA to join American families and truly experience the American way of life, all while making a difference in children’s lives.
WE’RE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY We are a global organisation, part of the EF Education First family; the largest private educational organisation in the world, which has been creating cultural exchange experiences for over 50 years. From your home country to your new home in America, we will always be there to support you. Other organisations use outside agencies to run parts of their programme – not us. We, Cultural Care Au Pair, are in control of each phase of your au pair experience; from supporting you in your application to finding the right host family and our 24/7 support network located in the USA.
80%
of our staff are former au pairs
850
ground staff and support network in the USA
26 +
years of experience
100,000 +
au pairs placed in our host family homes
THE BEST PREPARATION AND TRAINING It’s important to us that you feel confident and ready to take on this new experience. That’s why with over 26 years of experience we have collaborated with former au pairs and childcare professionals to develop our training and preparation programme from our headquarters in Switzerland.
CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
FINDING YOUR PERFECT HOST FAMILY
OUR TOP PRIORITY – YOUR SAFETY
We know how important it is to find the perfect host family, and quickly. That’s why we have the largest selection of host families available to connect with before you even finish your application.
There is nothing more important to us than your safety, that’s why we’re available 24/7 from our Boston office and across the USA. During your time in the USA, our local staff will live within one hour drive from you and your host family. They’ll be in contact with you during your stay to make sure you’re happy and healthy.
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In your home country – Our local staff
Our London team will be your ‘go to team’ before you depart. They will guide and help you complete your application, assist in your matching process and give you advice and feedback on any queries.
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In the USA – Local Childcare Consultant
Your LCC will be your primary support contact during your time in the USA. Your LCC works with you and your host family providing support and information. Each LCC works with several au pairs within your area, so he/she will also introduce you to other Cultural Care au pairs; some of who might become your best friends.
EARLY MATCHING As industry leaders, we want you to find your host family quickly, that’s why we provide early matching for outstanding candidates. You can match with your host family before finishing your application. Start your application today and you could be selected for early matching! www.culturalcare.co.uk/meeting
MAKING A DIFFERENCE Kids First – Cultural Care Kids First Foundation provides resources to support organisations that strive to make a difference in the lives of children in need around the world.
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GET MORE INFO Local info meetings near you! Limited slots. Sign up today – www.culturalcare.co.uk/meeting
CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR – EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS We know what makes a brilliant programme for au pairs. That’s why we have collaborated with former au pairs, experts and professionals to provide you with the right tools and training for a successful experience.
« Application Guide
« Au Pair Travel Kit
After your information meeting you will receive a help guide packed with tips and tricks. This guide, together with your local staff’s support and advice, will help you make a perfect application. Profile Guide • Book
Interactive book to guide you step by step and prepare you for your au pair experience. With this you won’t forget anything! Preparation Guide • Book
AU PAIR REQUIREMENTS:
PROGRAMME BENEFITS:
» Aged between 18 and 26 » Love children and have experience taking care of them » Completed secondary school or equivalent » Driving licence » Clean criminal background » Good health » Non-smoker
» Earn US$ 195.75 per week » Up to US$ 500 for college courses » 2 weeks paid holiday » 1 month travel at the end of the programme » Full board and accommodation with host family » Live in the USA for 12-24 months on a Cultural Care sponsored J-1 Visa » Round trip travel - return flights to and from your host family included
Our au pair programme is monitored and regulated by the U.S. Department of State. We are one of few designated sponsor organisations recognised by the U.S. Department of State to screen and select prospective au pairs. www.j1visa.state.gov
Erika Extended Insurance Coverage Comprehensive tailored au pair insurance coverage for piece of mind while travelling. Insurance coverage
CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
Early Matching – Connect faster We know it’s important for you to find your perfect host family quickly. That’s why we have created early matching, so you can find your host family before even finishing your application.
Exclusive Au Pair Tours All inclusive tailor-made tours around America for you and your friends. www.discoverytours.culturalcare.com Travel opportunity • Extra
Au Pair Online Account
MyAuPairCourses
Matching Workshop
Get Ready Workshop
Your personalised ‘go to’ online platform for everything. Status updates, host family matches, flights and much more. Homebase • Online
Specifically designed interactive training modules available through your Au Pair Online Account Lessons • Online
A workshop dedicated to preparing you to match with the perfect host family. We’ll help you prepare for your first Skype interview with a host family, so you can decide which family is right for you. Webinar • Online
Specially designed pre-departure workshop run either online or at a local Cultural Care Au Pair office near you. Webinar • Online/Office
NEW YORK TRAINING SCHOOL Your first days in America!
This is your first step towards making new friends; plus the opportunity to go on a New York City day trip with them! Spend five days at our training school on beautiful Long Island, New York. You’ll have three days face-to-face interactive classes. Training • On campus
#CULTURALCARETRAININGSCHOOL
Red Cross CPR Medical Certificate
Certificate of Completion
This is a mandatory course given by professionals that you’ll take at the New York Training School. Certificate • Au Pair Training School
Congratulations you did it! Once home, you’ll receive your certificate of completion – great for your CV. Certificate • On return
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M A R IN A’S STO RY
From my experience, I most enjoyed living the real American way of life! If you are in the USA as a tourist you don’t really get to know how everyday life is within an American family – I became a local and I loved it! During my stay, I did a lot of weekend trips, along with my travel month and paid holiday. I took a 10-day cruise with my au pair friend, starting in Miami, through the Bahamas and finishing in Mexico. My second big trip was a guided van tour, which I did during my travel month. On this journey I met so many other au pairs from all over the world who all became very close friends of mine. We started our tour in Santa Monica, stopping off at all the hot spots like the Grand Canyon, Lake Havasu, Las Vegas, Death Valley and finished up in San Francisco. Being abroad for one year and being responsible for three kids in a totally new country made me so much more self-confident and open-minded. I had to wake up my three host children, get them ready for school, including picking out outfits, brushing their teeth and hair, making their lunch, packing their school bags and putting them on the big yellow school bus. There were so many funny moments we shared during these daily routines. My favorite memory with my 3 year old host child was when she started to swim all by herself. I took her to swimming lessons every week and slowly she would get better. Then, when summer came, I would practice nearly every day in the pool with her, and finally she was swimming on her own. I remember that feeling as clear as day, I was so ecstatic that I taught her one of the most useful things in life.
#CULTURALCARE
Destination New York
Stay 18 months
Host Family 1 infant, 2 toddlers
CULTURAL CARE AU PAIR | UK | www.culturalcare.co.uk | 0800 085 1950
EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC MOMENTS AS AN INFANT QUALIFIED AU PAIR! Many of our host families are specifically looking for au pairs who have experience with children under two years old. Our au pairs who chose to join a family with an infant love to tell us how rewarding and special it is to be part of a child’s development. Here’s why: “I absolutely loved caring for a baby (3 months upon arrival). It was amazing to watch him grow and reach so many milestones in his first year of life. It was beautiful to share that experience with my host parents and older host child, as it brought me closer to my host family.” – Aymee, au pair in Florida
EXTRA BENEFITS FOR INFANT QUALIFIED AU PAIRS: » Specialised preparation Receive specialised training for taking care of infants in the USA at our training school in New York. » Gain further experience Taking care of infants means you’ll gain experience for your future in childcare or teaching. » More flexible schedule You will potentially have more weekends off, as most working families will want to spend time with their little ones then.
JOIN THE INFANT QUALIFIED CLUB! FIND OUT MORE AT YOUR LOCAL INFOMEETING www.culturalcare.co.uk /meeting
PROGRAMME FEE
CONTACT US:
£499*
LOCAL OFFICE:
0800 085 1950 | www.culturalcare.co.uk
22 Chelsea Manor Street London SW3 5RL United Kingdom
*Programme fee includes return airfare upon completion of programme. Erika health insurance coverage (£400) is a mandatory component because your safety is our top priority. Price valid at time of printing. Refer to website for current pricing.
LET’S MEET!
Come to a FREE info meeting in a city near you. facebook.com/culturalcare.uk
MEETING CITIES: LONDON BIRMINGHAM MANCHESTER BRISTOL CARDIFF
NEWCASTLE EDINBURGH GL ASGOW DUBLIN
Limited slots | Sign up today
WWW.CULTURALCARE.CO.UK/MEETING Friends and family welcome
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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
WE ARE PROUD PARTNERS WITH: