I wear jean shorts a lot, 'sporting goods' type shorts almost never, because of the pockets. To each their own.

What?? You can give her a clothing store gift card, make it a positive thing for doing well and settling in. Then she'll buy whatever clothes she wants to with it, maybe they'll be what you're expecting or maybe she'll prioritize something else.

If she's not keeping up with your kids or doing her job fully, you should start a conversation about that. But how she's dressed while working, especially if she's totally decent but not wearing what you would choose, isn't your decision to make. I've been on a hike in a foreign country that was extremely difficult for me, where the guide was wearing loafers and a sport jacket. It seemed crazy to me, but it was a cultural difference - no big deal.

You will probably upset your Au Pair. But you can work around that and say you got an extra giftcard that you won't be using and she can use it if she wants.
Don't make it like it's a gift coming from you. Her feelings would be hurt.

Anonymous wrote:Our AP is very nice but clearly has no active wear with her. She has jean shorts and a couple t shirts but clearly in the summer heat already she really needs some more breathable/comfortable sport/leisure clothes.
Would it be awkward to give her a gift card to go shopping at a sporting good shop?

We think it will help her be more comfortable with our active kids and keep up/last longer with them.

If the jeans and T-shirt’s work for her, then what’s the issue? You could find out her size and purchase one set for her. If she likes them you can then expand

Would you be mad if you give her the gift card and she gets herself other type of clothes like jeans or whatnot? how are you going to make sure the money is spent on athletic stuffs without hurting her feeling?

Maybe you should start by having a casual conversation with her about what she think of your athletic wear? if she says she likes it then you can introduce the idea of helping her get her own...But coming from nowhere that would be weird.

Gift card to Marshalls/TJ Max, sure but don't dictate casual wear. Some countries are more formal and would not wear it every day.

I think that’s a very thoughtful and generous offer. Maybe she didn’t realize what kind of weather to expect or maybe she can’t afford a new clothes to accommodate the weather.

Where is she from? My Mexican au pair is completely comfortable wearing jeans and a jacket on the days when I am melting. If you feel like she brought the wrong clothes or is unprepared then get her a gift card to Target and tell her to buy herself something. That way she can choose what she likes.

It's not your place to tell anyone else what kind of clothes to wear.

Our AP is very nice but clearly has no active wear with her. She has jean shorts and a couple t shirts but clearly in the summer heat already she really needs some more breathable/comfortable sport/leisure clothes.
Would it be awkward to give her a gift card to go shopping at a sporting good shop?

We think it will help her be more comfortable with our active kids and keep up/last longer with them.