What You Need to Become a Host Family

Hi guys,

over the last couple of week, many potential host families have contacted me to hear my perspective both as a former exchange student and member of a host family. Many were worried whether they would be suited to become a host family. Because I believe this is such an important topic, I thought I would make a video from a former exchange student telling you everything you need to knwo before becoming a host family.
As always lots of love,
Laura

[heatherb]

We are in northeast Texas and our German exchange student arrives this week! We are nervous, but definitely excited as well. Your videos have given me a lot of insight and help ☺️

[danielwingle]

My wife and I have talked about hosting an exchange student. My wife’s family hosted one back in the 1990’s from Hungary. They tried to show him as much of the USA as possible, even got him into Canada for a visit. We all still have contact with him and have went to Europe three times to visit him (and see Europe too). It was great learning about his culture and all the differences, especially considering that Hungary was just getting out of communism. When I was in high school we had two German students. One was very outgoing and the other quiet, seemed not to want to be here. I think it’s a great way to experience life as you might never have before. It would be hard for me not to see my son or daughter for a year though.

[karlabrown]

Love your videos! Very informative and always honest! We just did our first video chat with our first exchange student. We want to have a welcome basket but not sure wha to put in there. Any recommendations?

[Singingslp]

We are getting ready to host our 5th student in the fall (our 2nd from Germany) and I think we live close to where you had your exchange. My question is, what are some ideas for a gift basket for the exchange student? We have actually never put one together, we just bring them shopping for what she needs when she gets here, but I feel like we should have some gifts etc for them when she arrives. What do they want/need, and what is not necessary? Thanks! By the way, I have watched every single one of your videos and I will be suggesting your videos to our next German exchange student.

[HPFan]

I was wondering if an apartment of 4 bedrooms would be good to host a german exchange student? We are pretty stable when it comes to money but one of them has adhd would this be okay? We don't have a lot of money but enough to get gifts for the student.