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. 
Please
note: When requesting your homestay on you application form, please specify
that you would prefer an English speaking family, and we will do our best
to meet your wishes.
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 English 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 English 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!