On the day that you arrive in America, you're met at the airport by an Au Pair in America representative and taken to Connecticut, near New York. This is where you and all the other au pairs who arrived on the same day will attend a 4 day Orientation and Training program to prepare you for your stay.
Orientation is a residential course run by experienced professional trainers and covers everything from how to adapt to the American culture, to practical advice on how to perform your childcare duties. Before you depart for the US, you will also have the opportunity to complete our online pre-departure training program.
During the Orientation program you also get time for sightseeing and making friends with other au pairs from around the world. The New York City tour on the Wednesday evening is fantastic! The days at orientation are busy and packed with information that will help you during your stay as an au pair. By the end of the program, you'll have a better understanding of what to expect from your time in America and will feel confident and prepared to go on to your host family.
Orientation Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival, welcome and introduction
Day 2
Discussions about cultural differences, life in the US, expectations of American families and instruction on child development
Day 3
Childcare safety course, including tuition from the American Red Cross
Day 4
Discussion about experiences likely to arise and how to make the most of the year.
The last day is probably one of the most exciting days of your time in the US - meeting your host family face to face!