Your First American Holidays as an Au Pair: What to Expect and How to Feel at Home
Your first holiday season as an au pair in the United States can be one of the most emotional times of your entire au pair year. It is often full of warmth, wonder, and new traditions. But it can also bring homesickness and culture shock. Both feelings are completely normal, and you are not alone in feeling them.
If you’re interested in learning more, join us for a free webinar on November 12th at 2:30 PM EST (11:30 AM PST): American Holidays 101 & Staying Connected During Your First Season Away.
From Thanksgiving to Christmas and Hanukkah, American holidays come with their own customs, traditions, and vocabulary. This webinar is designed to help au pairs on the J-1 visa program feel confident and included during host family celebrations, whether this is your first Thanksgiving dinner, your first holiday gift exchange, or your first Christmas morning away from home.
We'll talk about:
American holiday traditions, from Thanksgiving to Christmas and Hanukkah
Common holiday vocabulary, customs, and cultural expectations
How to feel confident and comfortable during your host family's celebrations
Why homesickness often feels stronger during this time of year
How to hold onto your own cultural traditions while embracing new American holiday experiences
Feeling Homesick Is Totally Normal
Missing home during the holidays is one of the most common experiences among au pairs living abroad. Being far from family, familiar foods, and the traditions you grew up with can bring up complicated emotions, even in the middle of joyful celebrations. At this webinar, you’ll have an honest space to talk about homesickness during the holidays. We’ll offer real, supportive ways to feel more grounded, connected, and at home.
How To Join
This event is free and open to any au pair. Register here!
A Holiday Gift For You
Interested in taking a course with Au Pair Weekend? Use code HOLIDAYS25 for $25 off! Code expires December 22, 2026.
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