One of the keys to a successful experience is ensuring that your child’s exchange partner is warmly welcomed into your home, and they are provided with the guidance and support to succeed during their stay in Canada.  

Hosting Tips . . .

Reminder, your new European family member for the nine weeks is just that-FAMILY! They should be afforded the same treatment, responsibilities, and resolutions as that of your current family members. Nine weeks is far too long to have a ‘guest’ in your home. As the parent/s, your parenting decisions prevail as you will assume parental responsibility throughout the duration of the nine-week hosting period. 

Here are some of the ways you can help ensure your child’s exchange partner is set-up for success:  

  • Provide a room or shared space (and their own bed) for them to sleep and establish an area to keep their belongings 

  • Only speak English to them when they are in the home during the hosting period 

  • Provide opportunities for your child and the exchange partner to spend quality time together, this may include outings and activities or even just sharing meals or visiting friends and family 

  • Ensure that your schedule isn’t so busy that you can’t spend quality time hosting the exchange partner  

  • Be prepared to treat the partner as a family member rather than a guest 

  • Ensure that your family rules also apply to the exchange partner