Hosting a high school exchange student is an adventure. But how can you prepare to share your American culture in a way that feels fun, thoughtful, and welcoming?
This 12-day countdown challenge is a great way to get your whole household ready. Do one small thing each day, and by the time your student arrives, you’ll be prepped, pumped, and ready to roll out the red, white, and blue carpet.
Let's get started!
Day 12: Identify Your Family’s Core Values
Sit down as a family and ask, “What do we care about most?” Maybe it’s kindness, teamwork, faith, fun, or being outdoors. These values shape your family culture, and they’ll help your student understand what makes your household special.
Day 11: Make a List of Things to Explain
Did you know that Americans do the strangest things? Things like talking to strangers, wearing shoes in the house or giving hugs might seem totally normal to you, but they’re not universal! Make a list of small habits or routines that might need some explaining.
Day 10: Choose One Experience to Share
Think about something unique to your area: a high school football game, a county fair, a hike in the mountains, or even a backyard barbecue. Choose one “must-do” experience that shows off your local culture and put it on the calendar.
Day 9: Learn 3 Fun Facts
Hop online as a family and find three cool facts about where your student is from. This shows curiosity and respect, and it sets the stage for a great two-way exchange.
Day 8: Role-Play a Misunderstanding
Act out a few “oops” moments that could happen, like misinterpreting a tone of voice or accidentally offending someone. Practice how to react with kindness, humor, and openness. Bonus: kids love this one.
Day 7: Prepare to Celebrate Differences
Swap phrases like “that’s weird” for “that’s different” or “that’s interesting.” Help your kids (and yourselves!) develop language that’s open-minded and curious rather than judgmental. Words matter!
Day 6: Review American Traditions
What’s Thanksgiving really about? Why do we decorate so early for Halloween? Go over the big holidays and traditions you love, so you’re ready to share them and explain the “why” behind them.
Day 5: Prep Your Home with Cultural Curiosity in Mind
Make room in a drawer, post a little welcome sign, or display a small map showing your student’s home country. Tiny touches make a big impact. They say, “You belong here.”
Day 4: Make a Welcome Poster or Basket
Grab some markers, snacks, and maybe a small souvenir from your town, and create a simple welcome gift. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just thoughtful. It’s a warm way to start your student’s journey.
Day 3: Discuss Expectations as a Family
Talk about your household rules, chores, and expectations before your student arrives. Get your kids involved in thinking through how to be fair, clear, and consistent.
Day 2: Plan Your First Weekend Together
Brainstorm a relaxed, low-pressure way to spend your first weekend. Maybe it’s pancakes and a walk in the park, a trip to the grocery store, or a family movie night. Keep it simple and welcoming.
Day 1: Prepare to Launch!
You did it! Set the table, cook your favorite family meal, and toast to the adventure ahead. Talk about what you're most excited to share, and what you hope to learn. This is the start of something amazing.
Let the Adventure Begin!
You don’t need to be perfect, just open. By preparing with intention and heart, you’re showing your exchange student that your home is not just a place to stay—it’s a place to belong.
Here’s to laughter, learning, and life-changing memories. You’re ready. Let the adventure begin!
