PRE-ARRIVAL TRAINING

Au Pair in America is committed to delivering quality orientation content, so that every au pair arrives to the US having met all program regulations, and with a thorough understanding of program guidelines.

 

Au Pair in America’s orientation program uses a blended learning model comprised of three main components:

1. Self-paced virtual orientation course
2. Red Cross Child Care Training
3. Live webinar with APIA Orientation Team

 

APIA’s self-paced virtual orientation course uses a combination of voiceover presentations, reading materials, instructional videos, and individual quizzes to ensure the au pair has processed the information offered.

 

APIA’s orientation course also includes:

• discussion of adaptation to different cultures
• explanation of host family expectations
• role-playing related to communication and problem-solving
• discussion of child care practices in the United States

 

In addition to the virtual courses and live webinars, Au Pair in America provides support for our new au pairs though:

• Online discussion boards for au pairs to share questions and comments
• An Invitation to join a private au pair WhatsApp Group to foster positive au pair relationships within their arrival cohort

 

The APIA orientation program provides the foundation upon which your training with your au pair can begin.

AMERICAN RED CROSS TRAINING

Every APIA au pair must complete the American Red Cross “Advanced Child Care Training” course before arriving to their host family. This course is the gold standard in health and safety training for caregivers and presents real-life scenarios, quizzes, and tips that au pairs can revisit throughout their exchange.

After settling into their host community, all participants are encouraged to complete a full Infant/Child CPR and First Aid certification program through the American Red Cross. Au Pair in America provides a scholarship for this certification, and it is at no cost to the au pair or host family.

HOST FAMILY ORIENTATION

First year families in our program will participate in an orientation session conducted by their community counselor. This session will review important aspects of the au pair’s orientation that you will need to reinforce, explore cultural adaptation issues, and provide tips for living with a young adult and how to prepare for her arrival. APIA provides Guidelines for a Successful Year, a publication that offers important suggestions on matters you will need to consider and discuss with your au pair (see your APIA Host Family portal for more information).

TRANSPORTATION TO YOUR HOME

Your au pair will travel directly to your community on their arrival date pending available flights.

DURING THE YEAR

Au Pairs also have access to a wide variety of live webinars on topics in child care, cultural exchange, and other important themes related to the au pair experience.