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There is a lot to do after your au pair arrives. As you welcome your au pair, get them set up with documentation, and acclimate them to your home and family, it is important to cultivate your relationship and build a foundation of mutual trust. Share information often, but not all at once, and make sure your au pair has a complete understanding of information you share by asking them to repeat instructions. Be sure to also give them space to ask clarifying questions!
Your au pair will need documentation such as a Social Security card and a driver’s license. You’ll use these documents to help your au pair set up a bank account, a stipend payment method, and register for a CPR and First Aid certification course.
To help your au pair acclimate to driving in the U.S., take them out to practice driving so you can assess their abilities. Show them how to use the vehicle dashboard, discuss any mileage parameters, and clarify how the cost and tracking of gas is handled.
When reviewing expectations and responsibilities with your au pair, it can be helpful to demonstrate tasks and be as specific as possible. Having a detailed schedule will allow the au pair to plan their life accordingly, and scheduling regular weekly family meetings will give the whole family a chance to share highlights from the week and brainstorm solutions together for anything that could work better.
Cultural Care host families have access to an in-depth checklist to keep track of and guide conversations about documentation, responsibilities, and driving conversations as your au pair is settling into life with you!
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