Bringing an au pair into your home is an exciting step, but for them, it’s a huge transition. They’re not just starting a new job—they’re moving to an entirely new country, adapting to a different culture, and settling into a household that isn’t their own. It’s a lot to take in. A smooth transition doesn’t just happen on its own; it requires effort, patience, and thoughtful support from you as their host family. The better you help them adjust, the more successful and enjoyable the experience will be for both of you. Here’s how to make them feel welcome and at home while they get used to their new surroundings.
Set Expectations Early
Before your au pair from goaupair.com even arrives, clear communication is key. Go over house rules, work hours, and any cultural differences that might come up. They’re stepping into a new environment, so don’t assume anything is obvious—explain your family’s routines, parenting style, and daily expectations. This helps prevent confusion and sets a solid foundation for a positive relationship.
Make sure they also understand what’s expected beyond their childcare duties. Will they need to clean up after the kids? Should they prepare meals? How should they handle discipline? The clearer you are upfront, the smoother the transition will be.
Create a Warm Welcome
Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming, so making your au pair feel at home from the start is important. A small gesture, like a welcome note or a little basket with essentials, can go a long way. Show them their room, explain how everything works, and take them on a quick tour of the house. The first few days are all about helping them settle in and feel comfortable in their new home.
If they’ve traveled a long way, give them some time to rest before diving into responsibilities. A warm, friendly approach will make all the difference in how they feel about this major life change.
Introduce Them to Daily Life
Your home is their new workplace, but it’s also where they’ll be living, so take some time to show them the ropes. Walk them through things like:
- How to use appliances – Dishwashers, laundry machines, ovens—every household has its quirks, and it’s easier to explain upfront than leave them guessing.
- Local transportation – If they’ll be using public transit, take them on a short trip so they understand how to get around.
- Important locations – Show them where to find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and any other places they’ll need to visit regularly.
- Emergency contacts – Go over what to do in case of an emergency, including contact numbers, nearest hospitals, and any family emergency plans.
Even if something seems small, remember that everything is new to them. The more they understand about how daily life works in your home and community, the more confident they’ll feel.
Encourage Cultural Exchange
An au pair arrangement isn’t just about childcare—it’s also a cultural exchange. Encourage them to share their traditions, holidays, and favorite meals from their home country. Likewise, introduce them to local customs and invite them to participate in family traditions.
Taking them to a local event, cooking a traditional dish together, or even just chatting about cultural differences can help them feel more connected. It’s a great way to build a strong bond and make their time in your home more meaningful.
Help Them Build a Social Life
Being away from family and friends can be lonely, especially in the beginning. Help your au pair meet new people by introducing them to other au pairs in the area, recommending local social groups, or pointing them toward language classes if needed.
If they’re interested in taking classes, joining a gym, or exploring hobbies, encourage them to do so. Having a social life outside of work will make their experience much more enjoyable and help them feel like they belong.
Be Patient and Supportive
No matter how prepared they are, adjusting to a new country takes time. They might experience culture shock, homesickness, or frustration as they navigate unfamiliar customs. Be patient. Encourage open communication and let them know they can come to you if they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Small things, like asking how their day was or checking in to see if they need anything, can make a huge difference. Feeling supported will help them adapt faster and build a strong, positive relationship with your family.
Give Them Time to Settle In
While it’s tempting to expect them to hit the ground running, remember that they’re still learning. Give them a chance to ease into their responsibilities without overwhelming them in the first few days. A gradual transition allows them to get comfortable with the kids, the house, and their new routine without unnecessary stress.
If they make mistakes, approach them with kindness and guidance rather than frustration. They’re doing their best in a new environment, and a little patience goes a long way in helping them succeed.
Check In Regularly
Once they’ve been with you for a while, don’t assume everything is fine just because they seem settled. Regular check-ins give them a chance to express any concerns and ensure that both sides are happy with how things are going.
Ask how they’re feeling, whether they need more support, and if there’s anything they’d like to improve. Open conversations create a positive dynamic and prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems.
Making Their Experience Memorable
An au pair’s time with your family is more than just a job—it’s an experience that can shape their life. By making them feel welcome, supporting their transition, and encouraging cultural exchange, you’ll create a rewarding environment for both of you. The more effort you put into helping them adjust, the better the experience will be for everyone involved.
