The Top 3 Tips for Having the Extension Conversation

Here at AuPairCare, we receive tons of questions from first-time host parents and au pairs! One question that often arises midway through the program year is “How do I keep this great thing going?” Our answer? "Have you thought about extending?".

Host families and au pairs have the option to extend their program for an additional 6, 9, or 12 months. Consider these top 3 tips if you're curious about extending your match!

1. When should we think about extending?  AuPairCare begins to send extension communications at the 6-month mark, which gives you plenty of time to think about your plans for the next year. Make sure you review the associated deadlines for extending your program. These initial communications can help spark the beginnings of a conversation about extending with your au pair or host family. 
    
2. What should the discussion entail?  When it comes to discussing an extension, a good tip is to treat it like a traditional job performance review. Set a time, (away from the kids), where both sides can give their full attention to the conversation. Both au pairs and host families should be prepared to discuss the strengths and challenges of the au pair year so far. Make sure to review the extension options (6, 9, or 12 months), and then set up another time to discuss which of those options work best for everyone.
    
3.  What if we don’t want to extend?  This can and does happen, and it doesn’t always mean that the experience was bad. Host families may love their au pair, but perhaps a more experienced driver would better fit their family’s changing needs. An au pair may be invested in her host children but may need to return home for a job or to return to school. The most important thing is to communicate openly and honestly with one another. If both sides decide to part ways, it is important to discuss this in a way that leaves everyone with plenty of time to make plans and feel comfortable in the home during the rest of the program year.  

Learn more about the extension process for Host Families or Au Pairs!