Your Host Family
Just like your parent(s)/guardian(s), your AFS host family’s first concern is your well-being and safety.
Some families are very strict and have specific rules. Other families will tell you what they expect of
you and let you make your own decisions. Your family may want you to ask their permission before
you make any plans that are different from your daily schedule.
Almost every U.S. American family prefers to know where their children are most of the time. So, you
should always communicate with your host parent(s) if you are going to be late for dinner, visit a friend
after school and/or return home later than usual. You should always check with your host parent(s)
before you make plans to ensure that that your plans don’t conflict with any plans that your host family
may already have.
We ask all our host families to review the “Participant & Host Family Questionnaire” when you first arrive.
Please ask questions about anything you don’t understand or about anything that confuses you.
Safety in the Home
There may be times when people come to the door who you do not know, such as salesmen, religious
groups, or service people. If someone comes to the door, do NOT automatically invite them inside,
especially if it’s a stranger. Speak to your host family for instructions on how to answer the door, as it
can vary from family to family.
Inappropriate, Concerning and/or Unwanted Communications
If someone uses sexual, obscene, or threatening language with you via phone or text, tell your host family
immediately. If your family has a land-line telephone, ask them what any expectations are around whether you should answer it. When in doubt, let it go to voicemail and tell a host parent that someone called.
Do NOT give out any information; do NOT tell the caller where you are, if you are home alone, or
what your plans are. If they continue to communicate with you, do NOT respond and reach out to
your liaison or another trusted adult for guidance.
Locking Doors and Windows
Ask your host family if they prefer to lock all doors and windows only when they leave the house OR
keep all doors and windows locked at all times (i.e., even when they are at home). Some families feel
comfortable keeping their doors unlocked, while others do not. If your host family has an alarm system
in their home, be sure to learn how to use it, and memorize the alarm code. NEVER share alarm codes
with other people because it can be a safety and security risk.
If you find that someone is entering the home illegally, such as a robber or burglar, get out
immediately, run to a neighbor’s house or any area where there are people around, and call 911.
Recording Devices in the Home
It is very common for families in the U.S to have recording devices outside the home, usually for security reasons. Some homes may have indoor cameras also, often used to help monitor smaller children when sleeping, or even pets when a member of the family is not at home. While host families may wish to use recording devices in their home to monitor host siblings or otherwise, they have been advised they may not have any audio or video recording devices in an area that a student would consider private, such as your bedroom or a bathroom. If you have any concerns regarding recording devices in or around your host family’s home, please discuss it with your host parents and/or contact your liaison.