WHY HOMESTAY PROGRAMS ARE A GREAT WAY TO LEARN SPANISH

Homestay programs offer a unique and exciting opportunity for students to learn and improve on their Spanish speaking skills. Sure, the idea of moving abroad and living with an unfamiliar family in a completely foreign country may be a little scary and intimidating at first, but it's an incredible opportunity, and in reality there's far more to be excited about than nervous.

A homestay is the ultimate language practice ground. Students are given the opportunity to live in a welcoming home environment and the ability to live and learn in a new and exciting culture. The fact is, living and learning with the locals is the best possible way to really experience a new country and, of course, learn a new language.

There are plenty of benefits to sending students on homestay programs to improve their language skills. But, one of the main advantages is that they will pick up on everyday vocabulary. So rather than just “text book” learning, they will get insight into how the locals speak. Furthemore, they will encounter household items and tools that are used everyday, like the laundry baskets, eating utensils, and bath products. This is one of the most beneficial ways to learn vocabulary and the type of sentences that are spoken on a daily basis.

Since your child will be living in someone else's home, in a foreign country, there's a big chance that things will be done differently there to what your child is used. Therefore, there are a few important things to consider before sending your student off on a Spanish homestay program.

Let's take a closer look at the do's and don't of a homestay program.

What to do during a homestay

Discuss house rules within the first few days

Students should be prepared to discuss the house rules with their host family within the first few days of arriving. Things are likely going to be quite hectic in the beginning. Between figuring out classes and the curriculum and getting used to a new culture, students need to ensure that they understand the host family's rules and expectations. If things get off to a bad start, it can be very difficult to change the situation around. So it's important that students make a good first impression. They should find out whether they have a curfew, what time meals are served, and if there's anything they can help out with around the house. Communication is key.

Respect local customs & laws

This one applies to everyone, not just homestay students. It's important to research and be fully aware of the local customs & laws before visiting any new country. Local traditions and religious cultures are also important things to consider before setting foot in another country. For instance, in some countries, women aren't allowed to bare their shoulders or midriff. These are things that students should be aware of before embarking on their journey abroad. The last thing you want is for them to be caught off guard in a foreign country.

Communicate with the Study Abroad Programs Placement Office

While it's highly unlikely, there is always the possibility that students will run into problems with their host family while abroad. In these cases it's best to contact the program placement office during the homestay, rather than waiting to lay a complaint when the program is over. They often have mediation protocols in place, and if things are really that bad, they will move the student to a new host family.

What not to do during your homestay

Don't be afraid to practice speaking Spanish

Students must know that there is nothing to be afraid of when practicing their Spanish with their host family. After all, the whole point of the program is to improve their language skills and the host family knows this. The key to learning any new language is to get over the fear of making mistakes. A host family is the perfect opportunity to practice conversation skills. They will learn plenty of plenty of idioms, phrases, and expression that they might not learn in a textbook.

Don't be a diva

It's important that students understand that there is likely going to be a big “culture shock” when they visit a foreign country on a homestay program. They may need to get used to new food, new ways of folding laundry, and house rules that are different to what they are used to back home. It's all part of the process and it's important that they embrace it. It's all about accepting the differences and keeping an open mind.

Don't leave without showing gratitude

The longer a student stays with a host family, the more ups and downs they will experience together. While students may feel some relief to finally leave and get back home to their families, it's still important that they show their gratitude to the family for sharing their homes and their lives with them. Whether it's a heartfelt “thank you” letter, a special gift, or a dinner, it's always nice to let your host family know that they are very much appreciated and valued.