You found the perfect Host Family and can’t wait to live with them. I know going abroad can be very exciting. But don’t let the excitement make you forget a very important step: Your preparation for your Au Pair stay. To help you keep on track, I have compiled four important steps you should take before going abroad.
Talk to your Host Family
Will you get picked up from the airport? How cold do the winters get in your Host Country? Will your charger work there or do you need an adapter? These are just some of the questions you should ask your Host Family in order to plan what to pack. Also make sure to ask personal questions to find out more about their hobbies and interests. This will be important for the next step.
Get a Host Family present
Nothing says thank you quite like a
present. Remember: It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be
personal. Knowing about what’s going on in your Host Family’s life can help you choose the
perfect gift. I would also recommend
getting a little something for your Host Kids to
make them like you right from the start. It might be bribery, but honestly, who cares?
When I prepared for my Au Pair year, my Host Family was getting a new kitchen. I knew they liked to cook, so I got them personalized aprons, oven mitts and some delicacies from my home country. The kids also got hand-made aprons and Lego.
Pack your suitcase
Now that you know everything you will need to take with you, it’s time to
start packing. Depending on how long your stay will be you might need a pretty
big suitcase. Make a list of everything you need and stick to it. That green sweatshirt might be comfortable, but if you have nothing to wear it with it will just take up much needed space in your suitcase. Concerning toiletries,
only bring the necessities. Get small bottles of shampoo, showering gel and toothpaste. If you use conditioner, leave it at home. You will get to buy more in your Host Country.
Say goodbye to family and friends
Saying goodbye can be hard. But that doesn’t mean it has to be boring, too! Consider throwing a
going away party. Invite all your friends and just have a good time. Take pictures or
let them write a few words in a notebook you got. You can
take these trinkets with you and remember the good times with your friends and family when you
miss them. I would also recommend
spending some quality time with your family before you leave. After all, you won’t get to see them for a while.
Now that you’re prepared for a fantastic Au Pair stay, there’s nothing keeping you from having the best time of your life!
Have fun!
Sammy-Jo
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