Dear Host Family,

Thank you for your participation in this cultural exchange program. Hosting an international student is a rewarding and life-changing educational experience for you and your family. To help ensure a positive and memorable experience, we have outlined the following guidelines and tips.

Gung Ho Programs Hosting Guidelines and Tips

1. Introduce your household

• Give your student a tour of your home and explain how your family functions.

• Explain rules and routines, and encourage them to ask questions.

• Keep in mind that students’ language skills may be limited. Use simple vocabulary, gestures, and pictures when helpful.

• When expectations are clear on both sides, conflicts are less likely.

• Do not assume students understand how typical American households work.

2. Show your student their accommodations

• Most students are used to sleeping in a bed or a futon.

• In many cultures, sharing a bed is uncommon. Please provide a separate bed with clean bedding.

• Explain when and how to use the bath or shower.

3. Keep activities simple

• It is not necessary to take your student to fancy dinners, major sightseeing locations, or to buy gifts.

• Everyday life experiences are often the most meaningful.

4. Treat the student like part of the family

• Students are expected to follow family rules.

• They are not guests at a hotel and should participate in household chores.

• Students often enjoy ordinary family activities such as grocery shopping, cooking, looking at photos, walks in the park, or going to the movies.

5. Monitor the activity calendar

• Review the student’s activity schedule so you can plan accordingly.

• On free days, plan lighter activities. Students may be tired after long program days.

• Consider coordinating activities with other host families

6. Religion & Politics 

As part of our homestay agreements with certain countries, Gung Ho Programs is required to follow policies regarding religious and political discussions and participation. These policies are based on formal agreements and the preferences of partner governments and families abroad. Adhering to these policies allow for the continued operation of exchange programs like this one.

For this reason, host families should avoid engaging in religious or political discussions with students, regardless of shared language, background, or personal experience. Even well-intentioned conversations, including those conducted in a student’s native language or framed as cultural or informational, can place students in uncomfortable situations.

You are of course welcome to answer direct questions, and live your life as normal. However, to ensure students feel safe, respected, and free from pressure, we ask that host families avoid and/or moderate discussion of these topics during the homestay experience.

Our goal is for students to return home having had a positive, welcoming experience, while fully honoring the agreements and expectations that make programs like this possible.

7. Transportation responsibilities

• You will be responsible for drop-off and pick-up at designated locations.

• We encourage you to be as punctual as possible. If you will be late, contact Gung Ho Programs so the student can be informed.

• Carpooling with other host families is encouraged when possible.

• Students may not drive while participating in the program.

8. Meals

• You are responsible for meals when students are home.

• Students are here to experience American life. There is no need to prepare food from their home country.

• Many students will not take food from the fridge even if told to “help yourself.”

• Some students may have little experience preparing food, especially American meals.

9. Farewell event

• Please attend the scheduled farewell party.

• Students greatly appreciate host family participation.

• Students often prepare speeches, skits, or performances during their time with Gung Ho Programs.

• This is a great opportunity to connect with other host families and share experiences.

10. English language patience

• Some students may struggle with English.

• Writing things down can help with understanding.

• Speak slowly and clearly, using minimal slang.

• Allow students time to finish their thoughts without interrupting.

11. Medical information

• Students have their own medical insurance.

• In a life-threatening emergency, seek immediate care and contact Gung Ho Programs as soon as possible.

• Host families are not responsible for medical expenses.

• Contact Gung Ho Programs before taking a student to a doctor for non-emergency care.

Final note

Most importantly, enjoy your time with your student. Help them feel welcomed and supported so they leave with positive memories of your family and community. If you have any questions, please contact any Gung Ho Programs staff member. Thank you again for your participation