Have you already gotten matched with an exchange student arriving this fall? Are you looking for ways to connect with your exchange student from afar? If you answered yes to these questions, then look no further!
As the summer heat sweeps across the United States, the excitement for the 4th of July is building up. Although our dear exchange students may not be in the U.S. to celebrate, fear not! We have some fun ways to share the holiday with your student, even from afar. Let’s bridge the distance and start creating memories!
Here are 8 Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July with your Exchange Student from Afar:
1. Having a backyard BBQ? Invite your student to join via Zoom!
In this digital age, we can effortlessly connect with friends across the globe. Invite your exchange student to join your 4th of July celebration through a Zoom or video call. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a fun picnic, or a fireworks display, sharing the joy and excitement of the festivities via video chat will make them feel like they’re right there with you.
2. Send a Care Package
Care packages are a wonderful way to let your exchange student know that you’re thinking of them. When putting together a care package for the 4th of July, consider including classic American treats that evoke the spirit of the holiday such as red and blue M&Ms, white chocolate covered pretzels, or star-shaped sugar cookies decorated with red, white, and blue icing. To make the care package more educational and meaningful, include a note explaining the significance of each item and how it relates to the 4th of July celebration.
3. Join Online Events and Activities
Research online events or virtual celebrations organized for the 4th of July. Many cities and organizations host live-streamed concerts, parades, or historical reenactments. Share the schedule with your student and plan to watch certain events together, discussing the significance and history behind them.
4. DIY Crafts or Decorations
Encourage your exchange student to create their own 4th of July-themed crafts or decorations using materials they have at home. They can draw or paint a flag, make a flag-themed collage, or even design their own virtual photo booth background (see #7 for a way to use the virtual photo background!). Share photos of your family’s crafts and decorations and ask your student to share theirs as well.
5. Do a Recipe Exchange
Share recipes for traditional American dishes like hamburgers, apple pie, or BBQ ribs with your student. Encourage them to try making these recipes themselves or share their own traditional dishes with your family. You can even have a virtual cooking session together, where everyone prepares and enjoys their meals while video chatting.
6. Virtual Game Night
Organize a virtual game night with your exchange student! Play 4th of July-themed games such as trivia quizzes, charades with American historical figures, or a virtual scavenger hunt where everyone finds objects related to the holiday in their respective locations. This can be a fun and interactive way to bond over shared experiences and celebrate together.
7. Movie Night
Host a virtual movie night with your exchange student, featuring films that capture the essence of American culture or depict historical events related to independence and freedom. A couple options might be National Treasure or Hamilton, but be sure to ask your student what kind of films they enjoy. Discuss the themes, symbolism, and historical accuracy of the films afterward, creating an engaging and educational experience.
8. Cultural Exchange
The 4th of July is an excellent opportunity to foster cultural understanding and appreciation. Encourage your exchange student to share their own country’s independence day celebrations, customs, and traditions. Organize a virtual cultural exchange session where they can teach you and your family about their nation’s independence day, allowing everyone to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s cultures. Add a fun-themed virtual background and snap a screenshot of you and your exchange student together!
Although our exchange students may be physically distant during the 4th of July, there are always ways to bring the celebration to them. By involving them in the festivities and learning about their own traditions, you can help them feel connected and part of the 4th of July experience, even from afar.
Happy 4th of July to all!
