Moving to a new country as an au pair is an exciting adventure—but it’s also a big emotional step. You’re far from home, adjusting to a new culture, living with unfamiliar people, and likely speaking a different language every day. With all those changes, it’s completely normal to feel homesick at some point.
The good news? You’re not alone—and there are many healthy ways to cope. In this article, we’ll explore why homesickness happens, what signs to look for, and how to deal with it as an au pair so you can enjoy your experience and grow stronger through it.
What Is Homesickness?
Homesickness is a natural emotional response to being away from familiar people, places, and routines. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or that you made the wrong decision—it means you’re human.
Common symptoms of homesickness:
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Feeling sad or isolated
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Missing family, friends, or pets
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Crying more easily
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Losing motivation or energy
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Difficulty sleeping or focusing
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Constantly checking messages or social media from home
Even au pairs who seem outgoing and confident can experience it, especially during the first few weeks or around holidays and birthdays.
Why It Happens to Au Pairs
As an au pair, you’re not just visiting another country—you’re living there. You’re adjusting to:
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A new family dynamic
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A different language
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A foreign culture and daily routine
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The responsibility of caring for children
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Being far from your support system
It’s a lot to handle emotionally, especially in the beginning.
7 Tips for Coping with Homesickness
✅ 1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
Don’t try to “hide” your homesickness. Admitting how you feel is the first step to feeling better. It’s okay to miss home—and it’s also okay to enjoy your new experience at the same time.
✅ 2. Create a Daily Routine
Structure brings comfort. Set small daily goals—like going for a walk, making your favorite breakfast, or writing in a journal. Routines help you feel more grounded in your new environment.
✅ 3. Connect with Other Au Pairs
Join local au pair groups or online communities. Talking to others who are going through the same thing helps you feel less alone—and gives you a chance to make friends who truly understand.
✅ 4. Stay in Touch With Home—But in Moderation
It’s comforting to talk to your family and friends back home, but avoid spending hours each day online. Instead:
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Schedule weekly video calls
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Send short updates
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Share your experiences and progress
Too much contact can sometimes increase homesickness instead of easing it.
✅ 5. Talk to Your Host Family
Your host family wants you to be happy. If you feel sad or disconnected, let them know. Many host parents have welcomed other au pairs and will understand what you’re going through.
Small gestures—like joining family dinners, going on outings, or sharing stories—can help you feel more included.
✅ 6. Explore Your New City or Town
Don’t stay inside! Take walks, visit parks, try local food, or go to nearby museums. The more you explore, the more familiar and exciting your surroundings will become.
Tip: Start a “new things” list and try something different every week!
✅ 7. Focus on the Positive and Set Small Goals
Write down what you’ve already accomplished—maybe you helped a child learn a new word, cooked your first local dish, or made a new friend. Celebrate the little wins!
Set goals like:
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Learning 10 new words this week
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Trying a local dish
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Attending a language class
Small achievements help you feel proud and motivated.
When to Seek Support
If homesickness turns into constant sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal, and nothing seems to help, consider reaching out to:
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Your au pair agency coordinator
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A counselor or mental health professional
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Someone you trust back home
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your work and cultural experience.
Final Thoughts: Homesickness Is Part of the Journey
Feeling homesick doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re adjusting, learning, and growing. With time, the sadness fades, and you begin to enjoy the beauty of your new life. Many au pairs say that after the first tough weeks, they became stronger, more independent, and full of unforgettable memories.
Be kind to yourself. One day, this experience will be one of your proudest achievements. 💛
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