25 tips for hosting an exchange student!
My most popular post is probably the one with tips for exchange students. Since I’m now hosting an exchange student myself, I thought I’d share some tips for that as well!
When your host student first arrives, make sure to show them the entire house. Tell them about each room, whether or not they’re allowed to go in the room, etc.
Inform them of your daily routines! If a family member always watches football games on TV, let them know so that they don’t accidentally interfere.
IF they accidentally ruin your routine, forgive them. They’ve been transplanted into a new world, and are learning.
If you want them to help around the house, let them know.
Provide them with reading material in your language (for exchange students from countries with a different one). Depending on their interests, this can include anything from newspapers to children’s books to magazines.
Let them know in clear terms what you will and won’t tolerate.
ANSWER ALL THEIR QUESTIONS THIS IS SO IMPORTANT. DON’T MAKE THEM FEEL DUMB FOR ASKING QUESTIONS.
Ask them about differences in your and their home country.
Give them time to call/Skype with/email their old friends and family every once in a while. Every person is different. While doing this every day is not recommendable, a weekly (or monthly) update will please both them and their family back home.
Take them to see your city/village/town! Even small field trips such as showing them the park, pointing our arcades or malls as you drive them around, or visiting different restaurants is good.
Help them with their homework if they need the help! Even just different formats can confuse students.
Provide them with a place to call their own and to study at.
Make sure to mention any events, festivals, or other such activities happening in and around your area! (and take them if they want to go)
Don’t fuss too much about grades, and don’t let them fuss too much either. While they shouldn’t be failing their classes, they’re here to have fun, get to know people, and learn as much about you as possible!
Encourage interests in school clubs and events.
If you have a fight, try to resolve it as quickly as possible. Giving your exchange student the cold shoulder will be uncomfortable for everyone.
If they make a mistake, forgive them.
If you feel that there is friction or discomfort between you, try to resolve it. However, there are cases where the chemistry between host family and exchange student just isn’t right. This isn’t the fault of either of you, but it is a valid concern and should be addressed.
If you have other children, explain to them that this exchange student will be treated as family. DO NOT let them become petty or angry that someone else is receiving attention.
Give your exchange student as much attention as your other children/siblings!
GIVE THEM HUGS EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE. (When I did my exchange year I had very little physical contact with my host family and it was such a change from back home and it made me sad).
Respect their boundaries.
Support the friendships they make!
If they get lost somewhere, save them if they call you. If they figure their way out themselves, praise them!
TREAT THEM AS HUMAN BEINGS OKAY THANK YOU
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