What Happens in the First Week?
How to set expectations before assumptions form
Before arriving in the United States, every au pair completes a mandatory orientation covering cultural adjustment, program rules, and what to expect in an American home. Then the real adjustment begins. Host families: use the first week to walk through house rules, routines and schedules out loud, together. Au pairs: ask every question you have — there is no such thing as too many. The families and au pairs who start with clear conversations tend to have the smoothest years.
Read the transcript
The first week as an au pair or host family can feel like a whirlwind — and that is completely normal! Before your au pair even arrives in the United States, they complete a mandatory orientation through the J-1 Au Pair Program. This covers cultural adjustment, program rules, and what to expect in an American home. Then the real adventure begins. Host families, this first week is your chance to walk through the house rules, daily routines, and schedules together — no assumptions, just clear conversations. Au pairs, ask every question you have. There is no such thing as too many. The goal is simple: build trust early, communicate openly, and set everyone up for a great year. A strong start makes all the difference. Visit greataupairusa.com to learn more about how the program supports both of you from day one.
