The first few days with my host family were a whirlwind of emotions: excitement, nervousness, and a whole lot of overthinking. Like many new au pairs, I wanted everything to go perfectly. I was eager to help, ready to bond with the kids, and determined to make a great first impression. But I quickly learned something important — first impressions don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.

What I Got Right

There were definitely things I did well. I showed up on time, asked questions about the kids’ routines, and showed genuine interest in the family’s daily life. I helped with dinner, cleaned up without being asked, and made an effort to learn a few basic phrases in their native language — all of which were appreciated.

…And What I Got Wrong

Still, I wasn’t immune to missteps. I misread some social cues, used phrases that didn’t translate well, and occasionally stepped on cultural toes without meaning to. For instance, I once used a gesture that was perfectly normal back home — but awkwardly received here. Cue the cringes.

At first, I was embarrassed. But then I decided to own my mistakes and ask for feedback. That made all the difference. My host parents appreciated my honesty and openness, and it helped us build a foundation of trust and mutual understanding.

Tips for Future Au Pairs

If you’re preparing to meet your host family, remember: first impressions matter, but they’re not everything. Be authentic. Be respectful. But also, be kind to yourself. You’re learning, growing, and adapting — and your host family knows that.

With the right mindset, even awkward beginnings can lead to amazing relationships.

Start your au pair journey with auost — where meaningful connections begin with real people, not perfect moments.