They understand that as Americans we are not in this world alone.

• Toys: Choose toys and offer activities that reflect a variety of cultural backgrounds
• Language: Talk about language. Some languages have more than one word for what English speakers think of as a single entity. Ask your au pair if there are any examples in her language.
• Folklore: Each family has its own folklore, a set of beliefs, myths, tales, and practices. Ask your au pair about their special holiday games or food from their childhood; whether they know any dances, songs or language from "the old days" and if they know of any special "family rules." (For instance, one family sets the rule that you can only eat one piece of popcorn at a time out of the bowl.)
• Books: Read books that feature other cultures. For a great book lists organized by age groups, visit Kids Activities.
• Watch Foreign Films: the Oscar Nominations for Foreign Language Films are out and although not appropriate for children, it is interesting as a host parent to see what foreign countries are nominated. For foreign films that are appropriate for children, PBS has some suggestions.
• Music:  Google nusery rhymes from around the world!  See if you can download any of them for your children. If not, the Putumayo Kids record label produces upbeat, culturally authentic music including folk, Celtic, reggae, Latin and African music.

If your care taker is from another culture ask them about:

Body language: For English speakers, nodding the head signifies "yes". In some cultures, nodding means "no". Ask your au pair what body language in her country is different from body language in the U.S.

Music: Ask your au pair about the music she or he listened to as a child.