Contact Us
Blog

Our Latest Blog Posts

Stories, tips, and insights from the world of cultural exchange, au pair life, and family adventures.

Blog featured image
New posts weekly Fresh stories & guides

Seasonal Reminders

Helpful tips for host families and au pairs as the seasons change in the Netherlands.

Windmills in the Netherlands during spring
Spring
Spring Reminder
Longer days, tulips blooming, and outdoor activities returning. What to keep in mind as the Netherlands comes alive.
Read Reminder
Kinderdijk windmills at sunset in summer
Summer
Summer Reminder
Holidays, travel plans, and longer evenings. Key things to plan for during the warmer months.
Read Reminder
Amsterdam canals lined with autumn foliage
Autumn
Autumn Reminder
Settling into routines as the weather cools. What to keep in mind through the autumn months.
Read Reminder
Amsterdam canal houses in winter
Winter
Winter Reminder
Short days, cold weather, and the holiday season. Extra care tips to stay warm and well.
Read Reminder
Host Families
The First Day with Your Au Pair: How to Set the Tone for a Great Year
Your au pair has arrived. The permit is sorted, the room is ready. The first day shapes expectations, builds trust, and lays the groundwork for a successful year. Here's how to make it count.
Read more
Host Families
Homesickness: How to Support Your Au Pair Through It
Almost every au pair experiences homesickness. It's not a sign that something has gone wrong. How you respond can make the difference between a tough week and a genuine crisis.
Read more
Host Families
Tips for a Successful Year with Your Au Pair
The families who have the best au pair experiences share a few common habits — clear communication, realistic expectations, and a genuine commitment to cultural exchange.
Read more
Everyone
When Things Don't Work Out: Understanding the Rematch Process
Nobody enters the au pair program expecting it not to work out. But sometimes the match simply isn't right. Here's what you need to know about the rematch process in the Netherlands.
Read more
Host Families
Understanding the Dutch Au Pair Permit Process
One of the most common questions from host families: "How long does the permit take?" Understanding the IND process helps set realistic expectations and reduces stress.
Read more
Au Pairs
Life in the Netherlands: Au Pair Stories from the Philippines
Moving from the Philippines to the Netherlands is a leap. But for the Filipino au pairs who've made that journey, it's been one of the most transformative experiences of their lives.
Read more
Au Pairs
Au Pair Impressions: Stories from Around the World
Au pairs from Kenya, Spain, and Mexico share what life in Holland has been like — the surprises, the challenges, and the moments that made it all worth it.
Read more
Au Pairs
Getting Around: Cycling Culture in the Netherlands
The bike is king in the Netherlands. For au pairs, learning to cycle Dutch-style isn't just practical — it's your ticket to independence and one of the joys of living here.
Read more
Everyone
When the Host Family Is Away: Groceries & Food Budget Guide
When the host family is on holiday and the au pair stays home, clear expectations around groceries help everyone. Here's a practical, realistic guide to food budgets in the Netherlands.
Read more
More Resources

Important Update — Philippine Au Pair Contracts

The Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands has announced that, starting 1 July 2026, the notarisation of au pair contracts for Filipino nationals will be suspended pending a review of the au pair programme.

Sunshine Au Pair remains fully operational as an IND-recognised sponsor, with active recruitment across 20+ nationalities. We’re working closely with host families and candidates through this transition.
Read Our Full Statement