23 Mar Ask an Au Pair: Nathalie discovers Les Berges along the banks of the Seine
This week, we asked Nathalie, a 21-year old from Florida. She is living in a studio near her host family in Versailles. Here are excerpts from her responses:
What inspires you about Paris?
Walking through the streets of Paris.
What do you dislike most about living in Paris?
Sundays! Why does life cease to exist on Sundays?!
What is the best way to meet Parisians?
I don’t know many Parisians [Nathalie is living in Versailles], but social media (Facebook groups, Tinder) are good ways.
How do you improve or master your French language skills?
Practice, practice, practice! Some people will speak English to you when they hear your accent, but don’t give up, speak French back. If your host family speaks English fluently, ease into French as you go, don’t go on speaking English during your stay because you will not learn as much as you hoped you would. Also, watch movies with French subtitles. Your eyes will automatically read them and you will start picking up on grammar! Last but not least, read novels. Pick something you already know and give it a go in French: you’ll be surprised how much you’ll learn!
What is the best meal you’ve had in Paris?
There is an all-you-can-eat restaurant in Montparnasse that is amazing. It’s called FLAM’s and they serve “flammekueche,” which is sort of a pizza from the region of Alsace, located in the east of France. It’s absolutely delicious!
What is your favorite neighborhood?
Montmartre and le Marais
What is your favorite café?
Le Montbauron, in Versailles
What is your favorite shop?
FNAC
What is your favorite museum?
So far it’s the Louvre
What is your favorite secret Paris spot?
Les Berges by the Seine! I absolutely love walking around there. There is always something happening and the atmosphere is amazing.
What advice would you give to incoming au pairs?
Establish a good relationship with your host parents. They will be the people you’ll turn to with little questions or concerns, so make sure you feel comfortable around them. Talk about the children and what is expected of you, especially when it comes to punishments. Get familiar with their rules, you need to know what you can and cannot do, both with the children and in the house. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you have them, it is better to know beforehand.
Don’t be discouraged by your children in the beginning: they will test your limits and see how easygoing or strict you are. Be firm and set an image for them, that way they will respect you. And don’t take it personally when they say or do mean things to you. Remember they are kids and are testing you.
Don’t forget your role in the family. You are an authority figure with the children, but you are also their friend. Have fun with them and try different things! This also applies for when they misbehave or won’t listen to you: try different things and see what they respond to.