Being an au pair widely expands one’s horizon allowing the au pair to embrace a new culture, language, and a new family. Although a nice experience this can sometimes turn into an overwhelming too. It is normal to feel lost in a new environment, feel homesick, and yearn for your loved ones. This usually happens at the start of an au pair. Dealing with homesickness is a common problem among many young au pairs. But this must not stop you from enjoying the benefits in any way and must deal with this as a challenge that will help them grow in the long run. We here will provide you with some strategies that will help you cope with homesickness and help you make the most out of it.
Strategies to Cope with Homesickness
1. Create a Consistent Routine
Having a structured daily schedule can bring a sense of predictability and comfort. By organizing your day and knowing what to expect, you can better manage your free time and ensure you have moments to relax and unwind.
2. Forge New Connections
Building a social network is essential. Engage with other young people, particularly fellow au pairs. They share similar experiences and can offer valuable support. Finding au pairs who speak your native language can also provide a sense of comfort and ease of communication. Push yourself to go out and meet new people, even if it feels challenging. Joining clubs, taking classes, and attending events can help you build a social network and make new friends, which can alleviate feelings of isolation.
3. Foster a Strong Bond with Your Host Family
Developing a trusting relationship with your host family can be immensely supportive. They are your closest point of contact during your stay and can help you navigate any challenges. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings with them; they can offer valuable assistance and understanding.
4. Moderate Communication with Home
While staying in touch with loved ones is important, excessive communication can sometimes exacerbate homesickness. Instead, focus on immersing yourself in your new environment and engaging in enjoyable activities. Balanced and regular communication with family and friends can be more beneficial and less overwhelming.
5. Personalize Your Living Space
Transform your room into a comforting retreat. Decorate it with photos of family and friends, and postcards from home. You could also include a map of your host country and mark the places you’ve visited. Creating a cozy and familiar environment can help alleviate feelings of homesickness.
6. Keep Active and Engaged
Explore your surroundings and participate in local activities. Keeping busy can distract you from homesickness and help you appreciate your new experiences. Incorporating yoga and meditation into your routine can have profound benefits for your mental health. These practices help reduce stress and increase mindfulness, which can be particularly helpful during challenging times. Physical activity can greatly enhance your mental well-being. Find an exercise you enjoy, whether it’s cycling, swimming, yoga, or even joining a dance class. Regular movement can boost your mood and energy levels.
7. Practice Gratitude
Maintain a gratitude journal where you list things you’re thankful for each day. Focusing on positive aspects, even on tough days, can shift your perspective and improve your mood.
8. Take Yourself on Solo Dates
Treat yourself to activities you enjoy alone. This could be a walk while listening to a podcast, a solo breakfast at a café, a visit to a museum, or even a trip to the cinema. These solo outings can lift your mood and help you appreciate your company.
9. Speak to a Professional
If homesickness and anxiety persist, consider speaking to a professional. Therapy can provide you with tools and strategies to manage your feelings. There are many online resources available for finding a therapist.
How the Host Family Can Help
Though these are some of the tips that the au pair can make use of to overcome the burden of homesickness a few things from the side of the host family can also help them in this, which can be a great help in a way to alleviate homesickness and blend them into the family. This will in a way make the transition into the new culture smooth. So let’s learn what role the host family plays in this.
1. Develop a Personal Relationship
Treat your au pair as a member of the family. Show genuine interest in their well-being and daily life. Spend time together and involve them in family activities, which can help them feel more included and less isolated. There must be open communication between the family members and the au pair. Maintaining an open line of communication will help the au pair to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Offering emotional support and reassurance is also a need at this time. The host family can take time to show the au pair around the local areas and make them familiar. Introduce them to nearby attractions, parks, cafes, and other points of interest. This way they can feel more safe and less intimidated by the surroundings.
2. Help Them Build a Social Network
Introduce your au pair to other au pairs and young people in the community. Facilitate connections by organizing social events or providing information about local groups and activities. This can help them form friendships and feel less alone. Encouraging them to participate in other local activities of their interest like joining sports clubs, language classes or hobby groups will provide a sense of enjoyment and routine to them.
3. Provide a Comfortable Living Space
Ensure that your au pair’s living space is comfortable and welcoming. Encourage them to personalize their room with photos, decorations, and items from home. A cozy and familiar environment can significantly ease feelings of homesickness.
4. Encourage Participation in Activities
Encourage your au pair to engage in activities that interest them. Whether it’s joining a sports club, taking a language class, or participating in a hobby group, these activities can provide a sense of routine and enjoyment.
5. Support Regular Communication with Home
While too much communication with home can sometimes intensify homesickness, regular and balanced contact is essential. Ensure your au pair has access to reliable internet so they can stay in touch with family and friends back home.
6. Plan Family Outings
Organize family outings and activities that can provide fun and bonding experiences. Whether it’s a trip to the beach, a hike in the mountains, or a visit to a museum, these outings can create positive memories and help your au pair feel more connected to the family.
7. Provide Access to Professional Help
If your au pair’s homesickness is severe and persistent, suggest professional help. There are many resources available for therapy and counseling, and seeking professional assistance can be a valuable step in managing homesickness.
Homesickness is a common and temporary part of the au pair program. This is a natural experience but the most important thing to remember in this is that it must not overshadow this exciting and transformative journey. Embrace your au pair journey, take the opportunity to grow personally remember that this experience is a unique and enriching chapter of your life. By following these tips, you can navigate homesickness and make the most of your time as an au pair.
FAQs
1. What is the best way to establish a routine to help with homesickness?
Create a daily schedule that includes work, leisure, and self-care activities. Having a structured routine can provide stability and help you feel more in control of your new environment.
2. How can I make new friends in a foreign country?
Join local clubs, take classes, attend social events, and use apps like Meetup or Bumble BFF. Connecting with other au pairs can be particularly helpful as they are going through similar experiences.
3. What should I bring from home to help ease homesickness?
Bring comforting items such as photos, favorite snacks, books, and personal mementos. Having familiar items can create a sense of home in your new environment.
4. How can I improve my relationship with my host family to feel more at home?
Communicate openly with your host family, participate in family activities, and show interest in their lives. Building a trusting relationship can make you feel more integrated and supported.
5. What activities can help distract me from feeling homesick?
Engage in activities you enjoy, such as exploring local attractions, joining clubs, taking up a new hobby, exercising, or volunteering. Staying busy can help distract you from feelings of homesickness.
