There are certain experiences in
this world that are unique to being an au pair, and an international candy
picnic is definitely one of those experiences! A candy picnic is exactly what
you might think it is: a picnic that features candy versus the traditional
sandwich/salad/cookie combo. While most other picnics occur on a grassy lawn
outside on a beautiful day, candy picnics happen in the au pair lounge at
Cultural Care's Au Pair Training School. And they happen once a week—the
afternoon of the first day of classes at the school.
Au Pair Training School Director Lizzie Guerra says,
"Au pairs are told to bring their favorite candies from their home country
to share with their roommates, classmates, and new friends. And they bring all
sorts of different sweets—or in the case of some of our European
countries—salties!"
The curriculum at the school is intense and au pairs don't
have a whole lot of time for relaxing or hanging out. However, the candy picnic
is one such opportunity. Says Lizzie, "The candy picnic is a great way for
all of the au pairs to get together and make friends for the rest of the week.
Au pairs are very excited to share their culture using the universal language
of candy, and love to get a 'taste' of each other’s home countries." She
adds, "Sometimes the lounge is packed with a candy free-for-all,
sometimes candy is neatly ordered by country, and sometimes au pairs
give presentations about their candies to the entire group.
The format varies from week to week but there is always a lot of excitement
surrounding this event!”
