Frequently Asked Questions
What is hosting? Hosting is welcoming a visiting Japanese student into your home for two weeks. Give them a place to sleep and make them part of the family. They want to learn about life in American and practice their English skills. They also want to tell you about their country and fascinating culture.
Who can host? Anyone with a spare bed (you can recommend neighbors and friends to also host).
Do we need to give the students their own room? No, most students expect to share a room.
When do we pick-up and drop off our students each day? Students should arrive at the program location at 8:45AM and will be ready to be picked up no later than 4:00PM each day. Carpooling with other students is encouraged (we can help you find a carpool).
Do the visiting students speak English? Yes, but they will be a little shy at first. They will get better with practice.
Do they need special food? No, Japan is full of MacDonald's and they are quite used to "Western" style food. They may offer to cook a meal for your family.
Do host families need children of similar age as the visiting student? No - younger children especially seem to communicate well with the visitors. We have found that it is a rewarding experience for children (and parents) of all ages.
Do host parents need to be around in the daytime? No - the children are occupied from 9:00AM - 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Remember, this is free for all families who host a Japanese student. In return host parents are responsible to transport the students to and from Explore Japan each day.
What about evenings and weekends? There will be a welcome and farewell party on two of the evenings. Otherwise, use your imagination and show them the American way of life! The point is not to spoil them, but to show them what everyday life is like in your household.
Will somebody come to meet our family before the program begins? We will meet with you during our June orientation/screening event. At that time, we will meet your family and you will also be able to meet other potential families who have participated or will participate that summer.
In return, will we get the opportunity to visit our student in Japan? Yes, we visit Japan each March with a group of students from our programs. It is the opportunity of a lifetime at a great price! Click here for more information on our annual spring trip to Japan.
If our Japanese student has health or communication problems, what should we do? We will provide you with a list of phone numbers which will be available 24 hours per day with bi-lingual help. The students come fully insured for health or other related problems.
