Galina plays with the four-year-old boy and teaches him English. [Southern Vision]

Galina, a 21-year-old from Moldova, recently shared her experience as an au pair for a local family based in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province.

At the beginning of last year, Galina first learned about being an au pair through her school, kick-starting her current unforgettable trip overseas.

"Asia is a fabled land, and has been close to my heart ever since I first watched kung fu movies on TV. I have always worked hard and dreamed of visiting China someday; now I finally got the chance," she said. 

After a three-month-long application procedure, the youngster got an offer to be a helper and teacher for a Chinese family for six months. 

"Very nice", is what the four-year-old boy has to say when he is asked to describe the new foreign family member. 

"In addition to coaching his homework, we make paper-cuttings, sing and do sports together. I teach him English  while he teaches me Chinese. I am very happy living here and I even forget the age gap between us", said the young woman.

For each au pair, coming to China is all about learning Chinese and experiencing traditional culture. Meanwhile, for most local families, their biggest wish is to help their children improve English. 

Communication was one of the biggest problems when Galina first arrived, although this issue is now solved. 

The Chinese couple said that they expected to treat her as their own daughter and let her feel the warmth of their home. 

Galina would like to learn Chinese and grasp how to make Chinese food. She also planned to travel around China during her one-year's total visit.

Galina learns Chinese. [Southern Vision]

Galina learns to write Chinese characters. [Southern Vision]

Galina uses sticky notes to practice Chinese. [Southern Vision]

The little boy teaches Galina some simple Chinese expressions. [Southern Vision]

Galina learns Chinese in an au pair agency in the morning of Thursdays and Fridays. [Southern Vision]

Galina is interested in Chinese vegetables in the supermarket. [Southern Vision]

Language is no longer a barrier between Galina and the little boy. [Southern Vision]

Galina learns to use chopsticks. [Southern Vision]

Galina and her Chinese family members watch a movie on weekend. [Southern Vision]

(Source: Southern Plus / Translated and edited by Gender Study Network)

http://www.womenofchina.cn/womenofchina/html1/people/global/1707/2692-1.htm

(Opinions of the writer in this blog don't represent those of China Daily.)