YFU Handbooks 2015 Family Handbook (Study Abroad) | Page 15

travel, etc. You should not worry about the price of the gift; host families will generally appreciate something thoughtful, personal and/or creative. It's nice to bring a small gift for each member of the family, if possible. The best gifts are the unique items that your home state or city is known for producing. Some ideas are a calendar or book about your home state; craft items, especially if made by the child, a family member or a local artisan; a popular board games; state T-shirts, sweatshirts or hats; a cook book from your region; a table cloth or napkins; key chain. Additionally, we encourage all students to bring with them informal gifts to help share the American culture with his/ her host family. Some informal gifts are a photo album of your home, family or community; ingredients and the recipe to make a favorite America