Foreign Language Departments . Departments located at local colleges often have students available to tutor for a reasonable price . You may start by calling the language department at the college or asking teachers in your child ’ s high school language department .
Encourage him / her to learn as much as possible about the people , the customs and the unique differences - even those that are hard to understand - by talking , listening and sharing stories .
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Encourage patience when the exchange experience is not exactly what your child hoped for . It is precisely these moments that will build a life-changing experience and enhance coping skills .
Language Learning Materials . These may also be sent to your child from his / her host country before s / he leaves the US If your child is on a semester or year long program , s / he may receive language training through YFU upon arrival in the
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Remind your child that frustrations are inevitable when trying to communicate in the new language . The most important thing is simply to TRY !
The host family , friends and others will appreciate your child ’ s enthusiasm for speaking their language , not simply how well they are able to speak it . And remaining silent , if only out of apprehension , is often misinterpreted as aloofness or disinterest . Using smiles , gestures , and dictionaries can go a long way toward successful communication and friendships .
LANGUAGE
While some host families may speak English , this is not a requirement to host and should not be expected . We strongly encourage students to learn a few words or phrases in his / her host family ' s language before s / he departs . Not only will it allow your child to communicate some basic necessities right away , it will also demonstrate your child ’ s interest in and respect for the host country .
There are many ways to study the host country ’ s language before the program begins :
Rosetta Stone . This is offered to all YFU American students at their time of acceptance . Rosetta Stone is at the forefront of providing interactive , cutting edge language learning activities and is a great way for your child to learn and then feel prepared for the initial greetings with his / her host family and Area Rep . You can call the YFU Admissions Office if your child is interested in trying a Rosetta Stone account ( 1.800 . TEENAGE ). A headset and microphone are necessary to use Rosetta Stone .
Dual Language Dictionaries . For example , Spanish-English dictionaries are a great resource , as are travelers ’ phrase books . They can help your child learn a few basic phrases before leaving the US and are great to look things up while on program . These books can be found in any major bookstore .
HOST FAMILY PLACEMENT
Every attempt is made to place students with appropriate host families in a timely manner . YFU believes it is essential to make the best possible placement , which means that some placements are made days before students begin the exchange , while others are made considerably earlier . As soon as a placement is confirmed , our YFU partner office will send the placement information to YFU USA . Then YFU USA will send the information ( i . e host family ' s name , address , email and telephone number ) to your child . YFU
12 - Study Abroad Family Handbook