What Is An Au Pair

Au Pair Orientation and Training

All CHI au pairs attend an extensive 4-day training just outside of Washington, D.C. This is an ideal location for introducing au pairs to America and the Au Pair program. Before joining their host families, au pairs have a chance to acclimate to the United States in a supportive environment while seeing some of the nation's capital.

The Goals of the Orientation Program are to:

• enable au pairs to develop a strong support network with other au pairs
• review and discuss information about program policies and regulations
• provide au pairs with skills and knowledge to help them adjust to American culture and lifestyle
• reinforce au pairs basic knowledge and skills regarding child development and behavior and help them more effectively care for children
• answer any remaining questions and concerns that au pairs may have

A sample schedule of the 4-day orientation:

Included is a good mix of discussions, activities and hands-on training. Each au pair will receive Red Cross training and certification in infant/child CPR and first aid. Groups are intentionally kept small to ensure that au pairs have plenty of individual time as needed.

Day 1: Sample Activities

• Travel to orientation site
• Get to know other au pairs, rest, and review orientation materials

Day 2: Sample of Topics Covered

• Motivations and expectations for participating in Au Pair program
• Program administration and staff roles including the local coordinator
• What to expect during those first few weeks
• Overview of responsibilities for the au pair and host family
• Agreement specifics between the host family and au pair
• Family expectations and communication
• Importance of cultural exchange and sharing
• Cultural adjustment and how to minimize culture shock
• Parenting in the US
• Role of religion
• Alcohol, drugs and smoking
• Dressing appropriately
• Food patterns and preferences
• Privacy, freedom and safety guidelines
• Telephone and computer etiquette
• Driving privileges
• Vacation time and procedures for traveling outside the US

Guest Speaker: Linda Gulyn

Early childhood psychology professor from Marymount University joins the group and offers training about managing children and handling various situations that may arise with American children.

Day 3: Sample Activities

• Red Cross training and certification in infant/child CPR and first aid
• Evening free to sightsee and shop as desired

Day 4: Sample Topics Covered

• Health insurance
• Getting a Social Security card
• Opening up a bank account
• Sales tax and tipping
• Addressing concerns and problems
• Emergency procedures
• Educational requirements and options
• End of program procedures for going home or extending
• Discussion of the Babysitter's Handbook and the ABC's of American Culture
• Any remaining questions or concerns the au pairs may still have

At the end of the four day session, au pairs depart for their host families feeling confident, excited and ready for the year ahead. Welcome to America!

View our scheduled 2012 orientation dates here