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Helping Students Adjust

There are a number of things that host families can do to help students adjust to life in America and in your family.

- Encourage the student to speak, and speak English. It's not uncommon for new students to be shy. Drawing them out by listening to them helps them overcome this.
- Find the local market for Chinese foods (if available) and take the student shopping. This will help you purchase food that they enjoy, as well as give you an opportunity to learn more about your student's culture.
- Familiarize them with local transportation options, such as the bus or train. Go with the student the first time and show them how to use it. Most international students are accustomed to using public transit, and this provides them with more independence while saving you unnecessary trips.
- Encourage your student to meet up with friends, especially Chinese friends.
- Offer opportunities for your student's friends to come to your house.
- HomebaseUS will assist families who are interested in hosting a party and inviting other students, our staff, and other host parents to further build and support the community.
- Attend school events, such as open houses, musical performances, and sporting events that your student is involved with.
- Encourage extra-curricular activities to help the student fully integrate into the community. These activities can be affiliated with the school, but do not need to be.
- Stay up-to-date on the student's school progress, and look for opportunities to help with studies.