Host Family Program

Welcome to the Global Youth Ambassador Host Family Program! For the past five years, we have been placing young students in the San Diego community, offering them the opportunity to experience American culture first-hand.

Booklet

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What Are the Responsibilities of a Host Family?

Create nurturing, supportive homes.

As a host family, you are responsible for providing a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment. Here's what we expect from our host families: Provide a loving, nurturing, and safe environment; support and make the student feel welcomed; supply towels, clean bedding, and soap; provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including snacks; assist with homework and laundry; engage in weekend activities when no tours are scheduled; and ensure students go to school with clean clothes.

What Are the Living Arrangements?

Comfortable, welcoming shared spaces.

Each student should have their own bed. No more than two students per room, with a maximum of four students per host family. Your students may be shy initially. A warm welcome, smiles, and tools like Google Translate or WeChat can help bridge the communication gap.

Host Family Criteria

To ensure a safe and enriching environment, host families must meet the following criteria:

Signed and dated application form
Wi-Fi access
Washer and dryer in the home
Cleared background check by National Center Safety Initiatives
Proof of current driver’s license and automobile insurance
One bed per student
Smoke detectors in the home
Maximum two students per room and four per household
Home within a 45-minute drive to the school
Completed on-site interview/home inspection

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Safety

What Safety Measures Are Required?

Host families are expected to adhere to all safety guidelines, including the presence of smoke alarms and adherence to pool safety regulations. If safety rules are not followed, students will be removed from the family immediately.

Potential Challenges

What Challenges Might Host Families Face?

Communication and cultural differences may pose initial challenges. Be patient and encourage students to try new things and practice English. Provide guidance on daily activities and household rules.

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Tips for a Successful Hosting Experience

Download the WeChat App for easy communication

Be kind and welcoming to help students feel at home.

Prepare their room with clean bedding and towels.

Introduce family pets and provide a basic home tour.

Establish house rules on the first day to avoid misunderstandings.

Engage in family activities and encourage participation.

Be mindful of meal preferences and dietary restrictions.

Ensure punctuality in transporting students to and from school.

Encourage social interaction and practice English with the students.

Monitor and limit cell phone use during meals and bedtime.

Follow safety and health protocols to ensure a safe stay.