If you're one of the thousands of individuals who have opted to bring an Au Pair into your home, then you already know the numerous benefits it can bring in lessing the load of domestic duties. On top of this you will undoubtedly have also discovered the impact a new culture and language can have on expanding your family's ideology and views. In order to truly make the most of the incoporation of an Au Pair into your family the following tips may come in useful:
Communication and Respect
Communication and mutual respect are both crucial from the outset when incorporating an Au Pair into the family. In the first few weeks especially it is vital that you invest plenty of time in helping your Au Pair to adjust to a new culture and the differences in language. Actively exercise patience and be sure to communicate clearly and with simple language if necessary. They are not on holiday but nor are they your servant. It is prudent to bear in mind that cultural differences will make things a little strange for both of you at first.
If your Au Pair is experiencing difficulty in understanding verbal communication then it can be a good idea to write things down and advise they use a bi-lingual dictionary to translate it. Another surprisingly effective tool to help them to gain a firm grasp of English is television, not just in the form of language tutorial DVDs but also general programming, as such, installing a television in their bedroom is a great way to speed up the learning process.
Social Inclusion
To help your Au Pair build confidence and generally boost their enjoyment of their experience in the country, look to introduce them to other Au Pairs in the area and also assist them in registering with a local college. Not only will college provide them with a level of education and improve their language skills, but also improve their social intergration. As mentioned earlier, they are not there to act as your servant, but to have an enjoyable time alongside their duties.
An Au Pair's free time must be their own. By all means invite them to join in with family activities, but do not restrict them from using this leisure time in the manner of their choosing, whether that be going out or staying in their room. An Au Pair is also fully aware that you and your partner are likely to want some quality time alone and will be sure to adhere to that.
Driving
If you need your Au Pair to be able to drive it is your responsibility to arrange and pay for their car insurance, equally the onus is on you to ensure that their driving licence is acceptable for driving in the UK. An Au Pair's driving ability is likely to be unknown until they have been placed with you, as such it is good practice to arrange for a 2 hour driving lesson such that a qualified instructor can assess their driving ability and road safety, This is particularly paramount if they are expected to drive children, remember that this is your responsibility.
These pointers are only a small selection of the factors to consider when welcoming an Au Pair, but provide a solid foundation and help to ensure that both your family and your Au Pair get the maximum benefit and enjoyment from their placement.
Copyright (c) 2010 Jamie Lyons
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