Guidelines for Homestay Success

How to Be Successful in Building and Maintaining a Relationship with Your Host Family

Living with a host family is an enriching experience that allows you to learn English, understand Canadian culture, and build lasting relationships. The following guidelines will help you make the most of your time with your host family and ensure a positive and successful experience:

General Guidelines for Success

  1. Politeness and Courtesy: Always be polite and courteous to all members of your host family. Engage in conversations about your day and show interest in theirs. Use phrases like “please” and “thank you” frequently.
  2. Respect for Property: Treat the home and its possessions with care and respect. Follow the family’s instructions regarding locking doors and windows.
  3. Understanding House Rules: Familiarize yourself with house rules about the use of showers, telephones, and computers. Respect any time limits or usage guidelines provided.
  4. Punctuality and Communication: Come home at the agreed-upon time after school. If you plan to miss a meal, inform your host family at least an hour before mealtime. Follow curfew rules and notify your host family if you are delayed due to an emergency.
  5. Seeking Permission: Always ask for permission if you wish to have a meal or stay overnight at a friend’s home.
  6. Day and Overnight Trips: Feel free to enjoy day trips with your host family. For overnight trips or travel with friends, complete the required travel form from the School District at least one week in advance.
  7. Household Chores: Keep your room clean and tidy. Participate in household chores such as cleaning the bathroom, vacuuming, or mowing the lawn. Offering assistance shows your willingness to contribute.
  8. Emotional Well-being: If you feel lonely, worried, or sick, talk to your host parents. They are there to support you and can help with any concerns.
  9. Responsible Behavior: Represent your country positively. Avoid alcohol, illegal drugs, driving motorized vehicles, or participating in dangerous activities. Refrain from using trampolines, swimming without a lifeguard, or engaging in water sports without a life jacket. If unsure about an activity, consult with the designated program contacts.
  10. Appreciation: Show appreciation for your host parents by remembering birthdays and special occasions. In Canada, it is customary to give a small gift or card on such occasions. Gifts do not have to be expensive to be meaningful.

Host Family Expectations

  1. Integration into Family Life: Host families expect students to integrate into family life by being home for dinner, participating in family activities, and helping with household chores.
  2. Daily Communication: Families expect students to engage in daily conversations, greet each other, and discuss the day’s activities.
  3. Cultural Engagement: Show interest in learning about Canadian culture and participate in new experiences.
  4. Language Learning: Demonstrate a willingness to learn and speak English by spending time talking with family members.
  5. Academic Commitment: Show dedication to your studies by attending school regularly and working hard on your homework.
  6. Rule Adherence: Learn and follow the host family’s rules and guidelines.
  7. Problem-Solving: Communicate any problems or concerns with your host family so they can help resolve them.

What You Can Expect from Your Host Family

  1. Private Bedroom: A private space for rest and personal time.
  2. Three Meals a Day: Nutritious meals and snacks as needed.
  3. Study Space: A quiet, adequately lit, and heated area for studying.
  4. Daily Bathing Facilities: Access to hot water and bathing facilities.
  5. Laundry: Laundry facilities, though you may be expected to do your own laundry.
  6. Emotional and Academic Support: Assistance with homesickness, school difficulties, and homework. Host families may also communicate with teachers and attend parent-teacher-student interviews.
  7. Inclusion in Activities: Participation in family outings, special occasions, and recreational activities.
  8. Access to Common Areas: Use of the common living areas in the house.

Food and Table Manners

Canada’s multicultural society values individual freedom, and food customs may vary. Observe your host family to learn Canadian customs and exhibit good manners by following these guidelines:

Avoid

  • Slurping soup or noodles
  • Eating off or licking your knife
  • Reaching across the table
  • Speaking with food in your mouth
  • Chewing with your mouth open

Practice

  • Washing hands before meals
  • Removing your hat before eating
  • Waiting until others start eating
  • Asking politely to pass items (“please pass me the…”)
  • Staying at the table until everyone is finished
  • Removing your own dishes and offering to help clean up
  • Trying new foods

Variations Between Host Families

Take time to understand your host family’s specific traditions, which can include:

  • Saying grace before meals
  • Waiting for everyone to be seated before eating
  • Serving food directly on plates or using serving dishes
  • Having different expectations about finishing all food on your plate

In Canada, household tasks are shared among all family members, regardless of gender. Your host family may expect you to help with cooking, dishes, and housework. If you are unfamiliar with any tasks, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.

By following these guidelines and showing respect, appreciation, and willingness to learn, you will build a strong and positive relationship with your host family, making your stay in Canada a memorable and successful experience.