GETTING TO KNOW YOUR NEW FAMILY

Your host family will be as excited about this visit as you are. You should try to write a letter to your new friends before you leave. You might want to tell them about your family, friends, school and pets. You can ask your host family about their hobbies, sports and other interests. Your hosts would also like to receive a photo of you and your family, with your names on the back. If you are not sure of how to pronounce the names of your hosts, you might want to ask someone who knows.

SPEAKING WITH YOUR HOSTS

If you have trouble communicating with your host family, do not give up! It is normal to have difficulty making yourself understood at the beginning. If you use every available opportunity to speak with your hosts, conversations in Spanish will become easier each day.

HOUSE RULES

You should ask your host family about their house rules at the beginning of your visit. You will feel more comfortable if you know what is expected of you. Some standard house rules are: no drinking, no smoking, no drugs and Spanish only. All students must give at least two weeks notice before leaving a homestay.

GIFTS

Many host families offer gifts to their guests. You might want to bring some souvenirs for your hosts, too.

HAVE FUN !!

This can be a great adventure! Take the time to learn about your host family. Whenever you have the chance, try to participate in family activities. You may want to join your new family on a sightseeing trip, or just relax and play a game, or cook a good meal with them. Whatever you do, be sure to include yourself as the newest family member!