Driving

Driving can be an important part of your responsibilites as an au pair.   Each US state has their own rules regarding driving on an international license and getting a state license.  For more information go to http://aupairinamerica.com/resources/aupairs.asp.

Once you are in your new home, your community counselor and your host family will help you understand more about the local rules and get you on your way to driving.

The most important thing to remember is not to drive until you have had some time with your host family assessing your driving.  They may decide to have a professional driving teacher assess your skills.  If your driving need some practice, lessons may be necessary.  Sometimes the au pair may be asked to contribute to this cost.

Also, driving with children in the car is very different than driving alone.  Keeping calm and keeping focus is very important.  Here are some tips to keep your cool while driving with kids.

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2010/01/distracted-driving-driving-with-kids-in-the-car/index.htm

http://www.minitime.com/trip-tips/Tip-Sheet-Road-Trips-article

AND…

Never, never text or use the phone while driving.  It can wait.  Pull over if you have an emergency that needs your immediate attention.