COVID-19 stories #5: ‘I want to share a few things that have helped me in this situation’

During these scary COVID-19 times we have to stay strong, however difficult it may be. Some of us are dealing with homesickness, some feel scared and others try to make the best out of the situation. We are all dealing with this situation in a different way, but we want to let you know that you are NOT (!) alone. We will share COVID-19 stories from au pairs to show you that you are not the only one who is dealing with this.

Au pair from Austria

Dear fellow au pairs,

A few weeks ago, none of us would have even thought of the possibility of things being as they are now. It is hard to be stuck at home, working a lot of hours because parents still have to work, everyone is confined in one space and oftentimes you are not allowed to leave the house at all. During this challenging time, it can be hard to find the time and space for yourself and to feel like you have a life besides taking care of your host kids.

I want to share with you a few things that have helped me feel a bit better in this situation and I really hope that some of you might find these things helpful as well.

• Talk with your host parents. Communication with your host parents is important – now more than ever. Whether it is about where you should or shouldn’t go with your host kids or by yourself or just about you needing a break. I can imagine that it might be hard to tell your host parents that you need a break but if you’re just done for whatever reason, you should talk to them about it before it becomes a bigger problem. Also, if you’re concerned about the situation here or your family at home, it is always good to talk to someone about it.

• Find (new) things to do with your host kids. Luckily, we still have internet during this challenging time, we should use it. There are so many great posts on Facebook, Pinterest and so many more social networks about different games, arts and crafts projects, science experiments and so much more. Now is the perfect time to try new things with your host kids, build a volcano, learn how to braid bracelets or try out a simple cooking recipe. If you don’t have the possibility to go outside, it can get boring rather fast inside the house, so this is a really good idea on how to keep things interesting.

• Find something YOU are interested/passionate about. Even though it is our job to look after our host kids, we shouldn’t forget to look after ourselves as well. Use this time to finish projects you’ve started or find new ones, listen to your favourite music, finally read that book you’ve never had the time to, go for a walk outside (if possible) or just do whatever makes you happy.

I know that it can be hard to see the bright side in this situation but we should take it one day at a time, “Just keep swimming!” and most importantly, we have to remember that we are NOT alone.

Do you feel inspired and want to share your story with us? Send an email to theaupairblog@gmail.com and tell us about your situation.