It is Never too Late to Learn New Skills

4 Benefits Your Family Can Experience When Hosting an International Student

28 June 2017

Warren Davis

Homestay student hosting schemes are a popular way for International students to have the experience of living and studying in Australia for anywhere between a few months to a year. Staying with a host family gives the student a safe home to stay in and the benefit of a readymade family to show them around, keep them company and help them settle into their new routine. However, the benefits aren't just one-sided, and many host families enjoy the experience so much they continue to host international students year after year. Here are a few benefits your family can experience when hosting an international student:

Learning About Another Culture

Your family will have the opportunity to learn about your guest's home country and culture in a more personal and authentic way than simply reading guide books or information online. Indeed, you may learn more about the history, politics and customs of a country from the student than you would if you vacationed in their home country, and they can provide more information on day-to-day family life, which can help expand your family's horizons and nurture respect for other peoples of the world.

Learning A New Language

Some international exchange students are fluent in English, while others will want to improve their English language skills while living with you. They will also be happy to teach your family their native tongue, which can make for some fun exchanges around the dinner table. It's also a good way of getting kids interested in learning another language, as having a conversation with someone is more interactive and engaging than simply taking a language course, which often doesn't provide the opportunity to practice what they've learned.

Shift In The Family Dynamic

With a new temporary family member to adjust to, the dynamic of your own family will no doubt experience a shift. This can help strengthen the relationship between family members who will have to work together to accommodate your exchange student and make them feel welcome. For example, siblings may have to share a bedroom to ensure your guest has a room of their own, and this could help develop a closer bond between them.

Outward Student Exchange Opportunity

Some homestay student hosting schemes give you the opportunity to have a student in your family stay with the family of the student you have hosted. This reciprocal agreement can build strong bonds and lasting friendships between your family and your international student's family, as both families are relying on the other to provide a good level of care and a safe home environment.

These are just a few benefits your family can experience when choosing to host an international student. For more information, contact a service such as Global Booking Service.

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