Hosting an au pair is an enriching adventure that requires preparation and organization. Laura, a mother of two boys and Luxembourg resident, shares her experience after hosting four au pairs. Here are her valuable tips for making this multicultural experience successful.
Choose a compatible personality
Laura’s first tip is crucial: choose someone whose personality matches the family’s. “As someone who is extroverted and Sicilian, having someone who is too shy or inflexible wouldn’t work for me,” she explains. It’s essential to identify the character traits that match yours and look for them in your future au pair.
Take time for integration
“The first month is crucial,” Laura emphasizes. It’s important to invest time at the beginning to support the au pair: showing them the routes to school, helping them understand how public transportation works, and accompanying them in their first steps. This adaptation period is fundamental for building a successful relationship.
Do not take anything for granted
A common mistake is assuming that the au pair “should know” certain things. Laura insists: “Everything needs to be explained, even what seems obvious to us, like road safety rules or managing children’s snacks.” Each country and family has its own codes and habits that need to be taken time to explain.
Respect the balance between private and family life
“Au pairs need their own time,” Laura reminds us. It’s important to understand that while they live under the same roof, they need their personal space. Whether it’s watching a movie, reading a book, or simply resting in their room, this time belongs to them and should be respected.
Establish clear rules during working hours
Laura recommends defining precise rules regarding time spent with children. For example, in her family, it’s forbidden to post photos of the children on social media or use phones while caring for them. However, during their free time, au pairs are free to do as they please.
In conclusion, Laura emphasizes that the au pair experience is above all a human adventure that requires investment from both sides. Luxembourg, with its cultural and linguistic diversity, offers an ideal setting for this cultural exchange experience. The key to success lies in communication, mutual respect, and the ability to create an environment where everyone finds their place while maintaining family balance.
The multicultural aspect of Luxembourg, with its three national languages (Luxembourgish, French, and German) and large international communities, makes it particularly welcoming for au pairs. As Laura notes, it’s a country that combines modernity with nature, making it an ideal location for families looking to host au pairs while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Remember that each au pair experience is unique, and these tips should be adapted to your family’s specific situation and needs. The most important thing is to maintain open communication and create a welcoming environment where both the family and the au pair can thrive.
