The goals of the orientation are to:
The AIFS Orientation also covers:
When your Au Pair prepares to head to your home on the Saturday following the AIFS orientation, they will be nervous, excited and unsure about what to expect. Providing a warm welcome and giving the au pair some time to settle into their new life in critical. Remember that for many Au pairs it will be their first time living away from home and in a English speaking environment. Taking the time in these first few weeks will help the Au Pair transition to your family and build a solid foundation for your placement.
To ensure a smooth start to your placement AIFS provides all new Families with a Welcome Pack upon confirmation of their Au Pair. This pack includes the AIFS Au Pair & Host Family Handbook which provides tips for living with a young adult and how to prepare for her arrival, explores cultural adaptation issues and offer suggestions on matters you will need to consider and discuss with your Au Pair. Please take the time to read through the Handbook and of course contact us if you have any questions or concerns prior to your Au Pair's arrival.
For many families hosting an Au Pair will be a new experience. At AIFS we aim to make the experience an easier one allocating you your own dedicated AIFS Community Counsellor for the duration of the placement. Your Counsellor will answer your questions and is available outside of office hours including the weekend to support you.