As a Host Family you enjoy the freedom of choosing an Au Pair from a whole different part of the world. At the same time this means someone with a different cultural background and other moral values is going to be part of your family. In many cases a Host Family is not aware in which way the parenting style in different countries can still tremendously differ from each other.
All of a sudden a shocking realization. The Au Pair is rather aggressive towards the children and their voice raises to an intimidating volume. The kids possibly experienced physical harm. Did my Au Pair go too far? How much freedom can I allow my Au Pair?
What are you supposed to do?
In the initial phase it is important to introduce your parenting method to the Au Pair. The Au Pair will spend more time with the children hence it is fundamental to present the basics. Especially, when moral values and cultural backgrounds differ completely.
Furthermore, it is essential to explain your own culture to your new Au Pair. Most of the time, the Au Pair takes her parenting style from the experiences of their own childhood or school etc. Therefore, it is of high priority to give the Au Pair an insight of the Host Families principles. Eventually, the method of parenting of the Host Family is the one that counts.
On the other hand, different parenting methods imply new ideas for Host Families and it is necessary allow for some freedom in childcare as well. But it should be an individual decision of every family and should not violate their own fundamental beliefs. Physical harm against children is not acceptable.
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