Au Pair with poor English

[Anonymous]

Our new Au Pair arrived a week ago. Her English is not good; I think it’s better than she thinks, but I’m starting to worry about her ability to communicate with me when it comes to taking care of my 3 year old. The problem is that she is so embarrassed by her inability to speak well, that she is even hesitant to go to the free English classes at the library! I understand that Aupairs come to the US to improve their English, but reticence for actually working on it concerns me. Anyone been in this situation before?

[Anonymous]

OP, where is she from?

[Anonymous]

I would give her some time. Nerves definitely don't help.. Our au pair was like this and while it didn't improve much we have still been able to communicate with her.

[Anonymous]

OP here. She is Spanish speaking. We have a lot of Spanish speakers in our area, which can be both a good and bad thing..,

[Anonymous]

I'm a former ESL professor and can make out pretty much anything an AP is trying to say. But my hard line is whether or not they could call 911 and make themselves understood in an emergency. Tell her she HAS to go to esl classes and work on her English or you'll rematch.

[Anonymous]

Yes, the classes will help as will getting together with non-Spanish speaking APs. Unfortunately, few ESL programs are accepting new student now. Depending on where you live, you may be able to sign her up for free 1-on-1 tutoring at the public library. Some of the Fairfax libraries offer this, and there area few church programs (but not religion-restricted) that offer a summer program.

[Anonymous]

Op—thanks for the replies and recommendations!

[Anonymous]

If you are in DC a number of churches offer free ESL classes and they are on a drop in basis.