what is the best way to welcome an exchange student?

Question

My family will be hosting a girl from France this summer. I guess she's not actually an exchange student because we're just hosting her and I'm staying here. ANYWAYS, what is the best way to welcome her into our family and not make it feel awkward? I know of course things will be a little slow at first, but what can we do to ease the transition? What are some "dos and don'ts" of hosting? I just really want her to have a good time, and all of us too. Thanks!

Answer 1

You should get some good advice from the agency that is coordinating the exchange.

Don't overwhelm her with activities and big "welcome" events.

Show her around your home and explain where everything is.

Explicitly state anything you might be taking for granted. In our house, the kitchen is always open. If you're hungry and want to eat something, just do it.. Explain where the dirty dishes go.

Usually in these exchange programs the kids will have responsibilities around the home. Explain those.

Tell her how you'd like to be addressed. We hosted a girl from Mexico and she called us mom and dad. It was weird at first but really helped her fit in with our kids. That was two years ago and she still calls me dad. :-)

Be sensitive to her schedule. She may have just arrived after a long flight and won't be up for a big party or lengthy conversation.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Hi ,I had the idea b4 so ,some tips or idea's some a nice flowered pot she can take care of in her room as it wont die fast and u dont have to keep changing flowers for one a nice picture of the beach or nature pic for comforts, a small dish off candy , invite her to dinner ,take her out to beach or nature place to feel at home with nature as one, a set of towels or bath kit available just incase she doesnt have one with her ,if u could afford it a seperate phone line would be nice ready to use ,now there's an international discount rates with most phone companies,important rules of structure u will spect off her in a typed out papper would be appropriate,french kids are really cool ive lived with some b4 though some very passionate and horny ,yet some very smart and attractive still ,it be nice to learn french fully i only know some words.Also a tour off town would be great as to where to rent a bike to get around in where is the market beauty salon ,post office, police department,parks around ,lakes,beach ,good places to go shopping tourist love to shop plus good deals are so worth it yup.also once a month yall could take her out on a cool outing to know the us better in the beggining outings would be great just to not be so homesick though ,but eating toghether regularly as familly is the most important off all because that's one off the most important costoms off french arabic and other beauttiful cultures so I hope i've helped im excited for u sharing and meeting new people is good to the soul familly peace and love ,prayer is always good for all peace and love amen.

Answer 3

I'd get a copy of culture shock! France, it gives a really good explanation of what makes French people tick.