Affordable Childcare with an International Twist

Register for free and save $750!

New families who register from January 19, 2012 through January 24, 2012, using promo code PCJBAP2012, will receive a $75 application fee waiver and a $750 program fee discount when welcoming an au pair by July 31, 2012. Start matching with our au pair candidates for free and save hundreds at the same time!

Date Rape Drug
“Roofie” is a sedative that is extremely dangerous, especially when combined with alcohol, causing blackouts and even death. Au pairs have been victims in the past. To avoid becoming a victim:

• don’t go to bars or parties alone
• take your drink directly from the bartender
• don’t share or exchange drinks
• never leave your drink unattended
• if you feel very drunk after 1 or 2 drinks, get help
• never leave with someone you just met

Drinking Age: It’s the Law!
As you know, it is illegal to buy or drink alcohol (including beer and wine) in the United States if you are under 21 years of age. If someone buys alcohol for others who are under 21, it is the person who is buying the alcohol who will be in trouble with the law. It is not a chance worth taking. Do not put your friends into an embarrassing or dangerous position by asking them to buy alcohol for you if you are under 21!

Street Safety:
Common sense, alertness and a few basic precautions are the key to remaining safe around town or when you are traveling.

What follows are some basic guidelines for you to review:

• If you are walking at night, stay on well-lighted, busy streets; keeping a safe distance from shrubs, dark doorways and alleys.
• Walk with a friend whenever possible.
• Keep your car locked and check the back seat before you get in.
• Remember that visible cash or expensive jewelry can be a temptation.
• If you are in an unfamiliar neighborhood, look around for open stores, public telephones and street lights.
• If you think someone is following you, change directions and walk toward a restaurant, store or home that has lights on.
• Carry your car key or your house key in your hand as you approach the door.
• If you feel that you are really in danger, SCREAM.
• If you think someone is following your car, do not head home. Instead, find a police or fire station, a gas station or other open business where you can get help.
• If you are on an elevator and someone suspicious gets on, get off. Never get in an elevator with someone you don’t feel comfortable with.
• When you meet someone new, do not give out your phone number or address. Get his phone number instead.
• If you plan on meeting someone, do it in a public place with at least one friend to avoid being outnumbered.
• Never get in a car (yours or theirs) with people you have just met.
• Always notify your host family if you are planning on spending the night elsewhere.
• Remember that alcohol can affect your judgment.
• If you become a victim, try to get an accurate description of your attacker. Report the incident to your counselor, your host family and the police.

• Stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings and who is around you.
• Communicate the message that you’re calm, confident, and know where you are going. Stand tall, and walk purposefully.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.

Farah is a 20 year old au pair from Germany who is looking for a host family.  She arrived to the U.S. in November and is overwhelmed caring for 5 children.  Farah is available to go to her new family on Jan 20.  Please contact me for more information.

Michelle

847/980-1573

2012 au pair meetings, save the date:

January 22: 3:30-5:00 (you can stay later to skate) Ice Skating, Daley Bicentennial Plaza, Grant Park, 337 E. Randolph St. Free to skate, $7 skate rental

January 21: Ice Skating,  Leafs Ice Center, Dundee meet at 11:30 in the lobby. Skating 12-2. Cost $10/person

Febuary 25- Host family event Chicago wolves game. Ticket info will be coming in January.

March 13th (Tuesday) Safety meeting (chicago) Location To be Determined

Sunday March 11: Safety meeting(Elgin) Location to be Determined.

The final 2 meetings in 2011:

Maria arrived 10/7 from Venezuela.  She will care for twin babies.  She is excited to have the opportunity to experience another culture.  

Nova Driving School offers an affordable course to help your au pair.  You can find all the details here

2 hours behind the Wheel with a Sec of State Approved Professional Instruction.

Also available in Spanish.

Save the Date: Sunday Oct 30th

Time: 3:30 pm

Halloween Party

Laura arrived to the U.S. on August 15th.  She enjoys swimming, jogging and dancing.  After her au pair year she will study psychology (probably child and youth psychotherapy).  She is excited to learn American culture and improve her English.

All host families, au pairs and interested families are invited to the Halloween Walk.  Bring the kids dressed in costume for this fun event.

Date- Oct 29th

Time: 11:00 am

Place: See attached flyer.

Halloween Walk- October 29th