Beginning Your Life in the USA
Orientation in New York City
Your year in the United States will be an unforgettable experience. Our 5-day orientation session in New York City lets you begin to adjust to American life, and helps prepare you for your responsibilities as an au pair. InterExchange’s New York City staff will be there to welcome you, answer your questions, and make sure you enjoy your time in “The Big Apple.”
Orientation Topics include:
- First Aid (Health and Safety, and CPR)
- Childhood development
- Cultural differences and adjusting to the USA and life with an American family
- J-1 Visa rules
- Au Pair USA program information and policies
- Insurance information
- Social Security Cards
- Your questions
- Detailed instructions for traveling to your host family
- New York City Tour
Training with Your Host Family
For the first three days after you arrive at your host family’s house, one or both of the host parents will stay with you to help familiarize you with the family’s routines, schedules, and habits. Your local coordinator will also check in with you during this time to make sure you are settling in well.
During these first few days, you’ll get a lot of information. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s important that you understand everything your host parents are communicating to you.
Of course, the most important—and fun—responsibility you’ll have during this time is getting to know the children. Your arrival is an adjustment for them too, and you can help make them comfortable by spending plenty of time with them.
What Our Au Pairs Say
“[My host family] created such a friendly atmosphere at home so that I truly feel like a member of the family. My host family enriched my life. What is exciting about this program? What kind of experience did I gain working as an au pair? The most valuable and important thing that I got through participating in this program is my host family and love of their children.”
~ Olga M., Russia
“I wish all the au pairs have had and will have the luck I've had. I recommend this experience to everybody who likes kids and is interested in getting to know the American culture. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity that you can't let pass by. It's a chance to grow up and get to know yourself better than you think you can.”
~ Paula S., Brazil
