First impressions matter—especially when someone’s moving halfway across the world to live in your home. Your new au pair is likely feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and homesickness as they step into this next chapter. As a host mom, you have a beautiful opportunity to make those first moments warm, welcoming, and memorable. One of the simplest (and sweetest) ways to do that? A thoughtfully curated welcome basket. It’s more than just a collection of items—it’s your first “hello,” your first act of kindness, and your first chance to say, “You’re part of our family now.” Of course, you don’t need to give all of these things, but pick one or two from each category and you will be in good shape. Getting a new Au Pair is stressful, hopefully this list can help!
1. Comfort & Essentials
Your au pair is likely jet-lagged and overwhelmed. Give them a few cozy basics to help them unwind and settle in. After a day or two you can run to target to get them all the essentials, but this will get them through the first few days.
- Cozy Throw Blanket – Soft, warm, and perfect for their bed or curling up after a long flight.
👉 Check out this plush fleece throw - Slippers or Fuzzy Socks – Comfortable indoor footwear helps them feel “at home” right away.
👉 These memory foam slippers are always a hit - Toiletry Starter Kit – Include travel-size shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, a toothbrush, and maybe a face mask.
👉 Grab a travel toiletry essentials kit - Reusable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is key, and a cute bottle is always appreciated.
👉 Try this reuable hyrdroflask water bottle
Why include these? It’s likely your au pair won’t have time (or energy) to hit the store their first day. A few comfy and practical touches go a long way.
2. Local Touches & Personal Warmth
Help your au pair feel connected to your family and your hometown.
- Local Map or City Guide – Something with fun things to do and places to visit.
👉 This customizable scratch-off US map is also a fun keepsake. - Welcome Card from the Kids – Let the kids decorate a card or draw a picture. This adds a sweet, homemade touch.
- Family Photo in a Frame – We generally ask them for a picture of their friends/family and have them send it and then we print it out and have it already loaded in the frame when they get there. (Our new Au Pairs really love this touch).
👉 Simple wood frame
Why include these? Au pairs are here to be part of your family, not just employees. These little details help them feel included and loved from day one.
3. Language & Culture Helpers
Even if your au pair speaks great English, they’re still adapting to a new culture and routine.
- Pocket English Phrasebook or Slang Guide
👉 Try this fun book on American slang - Notebook and Pens – A place for jotting down notes, schedules, or journaling.
👉 This Hard Cover Journal is jam packed with Au Pair specific Prompts for them to remember their time fondly - Snack Sampler – A selection of American snacks to try (Goldfish, Reese’s, granola bars, etc.)
Why include these? These are great conversation starters and fun ways to share culture while easing the transition.
4. Self-Care and Relaxation
Being in a new country is amazing—and also exhausting. Encourage self-care from day one.
- Sheet Face Masks or Bath Bombs – Affordable indulgences they wouldn’t buy for themselves.
👉 Multi-pack of Korean sheet masks
👉 Colorful bath bomb gift set - Stress Relief Tea or Coffee Sampler – Especially helpful for late-night homesickness just ask if they drink tea or coffee first!
👉 Herbal tea sampler - Sleep Mask or Lavender Pillow Spray – Helps with jet lag and adjusting to a new sleep space.
👉 Lavender pillow spray
Why include these? These little luxuries show that you see your au pair as a person who needs rest and kindness, not just a caregiver.
5. Something Fun and Unexpected
Throw in a small surprise to make them smile.
- Cute Keychain with Their Initial or a Local Landmark. You are going to need to give them a key to the house and/or mailbox, so having the key already set up on a key chain is a nice touch.
👉 Personalized letter keychain - Puzzle or Card Game – Something fun they can do with your kids or on their own.
👉 Uno is a classic crowd-pleaser - Gift Card for a Local Coffee Shop or Amazon – Just a little “treat yourself” gesture.
💡 Final Tips from a Host Mom
- Presentation matters. Arrange the items in a pretty basket, gift bag, or even a decorative box they can reuse.
- Add a handwritten note. Nothing beats a warm message that says, “We’re so happy you’re here.”
- Ask your previous au pairs what they liked. If you’ve hosted before, chances are they’ll have great advice too!
❤️ The Bigger Picture
Creating a welcome basket is not about the money you spend—it’s about setting the tone for your year together. It tells your au pair: You matter to us. We’re excited you’re part of our family.
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