A guide to being a host family in Japan
1. Points to consider throughout the hosting experience
The exchange student is part of the family therefore they are not a customer
Relatively speaking, host family members will essentially be the exchange students father, mother, grandmother and sister. It is important that the exchange student experiences your average Japanese lifestyle hence families are not required to give the exchange student any special treatment. In fact, should the exchange student be given over the top treatment this may lead to a negative outcome for everyone involved. Our host families are expected to be genuinely warm when they meet their exchange student.
Be sure to let the exchange student know of your established house rules
Families have their own set of rules. As the exchange student is also a member of the host family, they are expected to follow those rules. There are cases where it would be difficult to let the exchange student know of what not to do, however, it is better to inform them so everyone is on the same page. On a separate note regarding religious customs, host families are to take into account of how it may affect their exchange student and are expected to not pressure their exchange student. As a family member, exchange students should and can participate in household chores. This is also an important aspect of Japanese customs and cultures. Therefore letting the exchange student feel at home requires the student to be part of the family and to experience it through the average person’s perspective.
Clear and considerate communication
The exchange student has studied some Japanese. However, since some of it may be from books and written material, it would be different to that of spoken, conversational Japanese. When communicating with the exchange students, be aware that misunderstanding may happen between the family and student.
There are also times when one cannot fully comprehend the situation despite understanding the frustration coming from communicating in a unfamiliar language. Therefore, host families are to be clear and transparent with communication so that the exchange student can understand the household rules and the flow of daily conversations. To support open communication, host families can ask the exchange student to repeat themselves when a message is not clear. Differences in ways of thinking and living are normal. Explain and hear what is normally accepted in both countries to reach mutual understanding of appropriate practices.
Other important points for host families to consider:
• Ask the exchange student questions of their home country to learn more about each other
• Encourage the exchange student’s progress with Japanese language. Little bits of advice provided on a daily basis would benefit their growth
• There is no need to speak and conduct activities in the exchange student’s mother language. This includes speaking in English, presenting newspapers in English, watching shows in two languages
• Consult with the exchange student on what they would like to do while in Japan
2. What do host families do right after meeting their exchange students?
Confirm the following:
• Household rules are clear
• How to separate and dispose of rubbish including recycling
• How to get to school
• Likes and dislikes for food
• How to use the bath and shower
• How to use the toilet and washlet
• Contact details including home phone and mobile
Homesick
Sometimes stress can build up from not being able to express oneself in the Japanese language and with differences in customs following arrival in Japan. During this period, the support and understanding from the host family is crucial. Host families should be warm and caring to the exchange student. It can be difficult for the exchange student to handle the situation on their own, so when the going gets tough, host families can be that needed pillar of support for the exchange student. Consulting with the exchange student is one of the most effective methods in times of distress. When the distress become too heavy, be sure to contact appropriate staff at the exchange school.
3. Food
Providing food
• Host families are to provide breakfast, lunch and dinner
• During the holidays, the exchange student may go out with friends so host families do not need to provide financial aid as the exchange student will use their own money
When and what to eat
• Host families do not need to cook up special foods for the exchange student. The host family’s typical meal is more than enough
• It is not necessary for host families to overthink that the exchange student will not eat specific foods because of its Japanese ingredients
• Eating times are to remain the same as they normally do in the host family’s household
• The host family and exchange student should eat together as a family
4. Spending money
Please refrain from giving the students money in any form
5. Washing
There is no need to wash the host student’s clothes separately; it can be put together with the family’s washing. The student might prefer to do their own washing, in which case please ask them
6. Phone Calls
• Please assist the students in making any domestic phone calls if needed
• Students are responsible for any international calls overseas – usually via WhatsApp, a pre-paid international sim card, credit card call or a collect call. (Please note, this is not the host family’s responsibility)
7. Internet and computer access
Students will be under the impression that the host family’s computer can be used to contact their families via email. If the need arises, please allow the students to have computer access. However, it is best to settle an agreed amount of time prior; to avoid students spending spend excessive time on the computer.
8. Injury and Illness
• If the student injures themself, please take them to see a doctor as soon as possible. The students will have medical insurance to cover the cost of the appointment/medical expenses
• While the insurance company will reimburse the full amount, the host may be required to pay the upfront cost at the time of appointment. We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding
• In the case of a medical emergency, please contact the school’s appointed staff member
9. Emergency
In the case of an emergency please inform the students on the evacuation point and procedures. Also, please provide emergency contact information when away from home (mobile number, address, etc.)
