Becoming a host family for the first time is not a decision that a family should take lightly. It's not quite the same as becoming a parent for the first time either. There is a middle ground somewhere in taking care of someone else's child to help them thrive in a new academic and social environment. For our "spotlight" host family of the year, the "M" family, it has been a rewarding experience, not without some challenges.
Mr. M. recalled that in the beginning, their student spent most of the first few homestay days in his room. He seemed distant and unsure of how to make an inroad into the family's conversation and activities. However, after breaking the ice during multiple attempts to help their student feel welcome, they made some real progress. Mr. M. mentioned that it was helpful to talk about ground rules and expectations from the get-go, which is why Everyday Interaction provides a Homestay Workbook for the family and student. The workbook can be completed as an initial family activity and really helps the student find some structure, boundaries, and confidence in his/her place in a new home.
To help break through to the next layer, the M. family had their student play sports with them--both his favorite and theirs. They also encouraged their student to act as if he were at home, and do things he would do for his own family back home. So, he started cooking for his host family and introduced them to traditional Chinese meals. Inviting a homestay student to show you what his or her culture is all about, is a real opportunity to build a foundation and make connections. What wonderful insight on this host family's part!
The M. family also helped bring their student out of his shell by playing games together as a family, and performing household chores, such as yard work together. Including your homestay student in regular activities, even cleaning, will make him or her feel like a part of the family more than a guest in your home, which is the whole point. The M family feels that their homestay student has a duty to help around the house just like any of their other family members. Though it might seem awkward at first, it's important to include these kind of expectations at your own pace.
The M. family feels that their homestay student has been a great match for their family, and especially their 15 year old son. Mr. M. feels that the reward is in watching his son and his homestay student connect with one another, and learn from each other.
Everyday Interaction is grateful for all of our wonderful host families -- both our veteran families and our newbie families who have yet to take the leap. The M. family is certainly a role model family for the homestay experience. A special thanks goes out to them for their willingness to open their home and accept the rewarding challenge of hosting an international student.
If you are willing to become a host family, or just want to learn more, please send us an email: homestay@everydayinteraction.com, or visit our website: www.everydayinteraction.com
