Some Tips for Parents:

• Take an active role in your child’s exchange experience by thoroughly reviewing their application and ensuring that all relevant information and details are included 

• Ensure your child has all the necessary travel documentation 

• Have a conversation with your child’s school to ensure that everything is sufficiently in place for your child to receive their credits while abroad and to ensure the school is ready to welcome the exchange partner 

• Provide a safe and welcoming space for your child’s exchange partner, including welcoming them into your family’s routines and activities  

• Agree to maintain scheduled contact while they are abroad. This will not only reassure you about their well-being but also help them manage any feelings of homesickness 

• Assume all parental care and responsibilities for the nine-week duration

• Understand that these children are learning to adjust and may make mistakes; it is all part of the journey, and your role is to support and guide them

• Reach out to ISE at any point if you have questions or concerns 

  Parents, the best advice we can give you is to treat your new family member as just that—family! Celebrate their presence as you would your child and address behavioural matters with the same care and understanding. You have limited weeks together, and even the best of siblings can have conflict; as the adults in the home, your care and guidance in managing these situations are critical to the exchange's success. A reminder that no matter how well-versed a participant's level of English is, it is still their second language. Translation and tone may occasionally be misguided without intent; use these situations as a learning opportunity. Embrace cultural nuances, seek clarity when needed, and be open to course-correcting; it's all part of the enriching learning experience all family members can benefit from.