■ We are looking for homes for 11 days in February (the exact month in spring can change, depending on the French school) and 21 days in July. The French students are not here for the entire school year or summer.
■ The French students have already paid their air fare, have health insurance, bring spending money, and speak English… well, they sure try!
■ It is fine if members of the host family work part or full-time. The French students know that American students and parents work a lot, have busy schedules, and participate in many activities. Even so, you will have some free time on certain days, evenings, and weekends. On the other hand, it would be a problem if every member of your family, including teenagers, must work forty hours or more per week. But you may have some flexibility, and we can discuss your schedules to see what might work.
■ The French students do not need fancy accommodations. They can share or have their own bedroom. A family room, den, or finished off area in the basement could serve as a temporary bedroom; an uncomfortable cot or air mattress, or just a couch in the living room would not be suitable.
■ The French students are permitted to go out of town with you. If you go out of town and cannot bring the French student along, or if you are out of town on the day of their arrival or departure, or anytime you have plans that make it difficult for you to host for a period of their stay, we have back-up families who can take your student during your absence. We’re flexible!
■ The ECI coordinators are always on hand while the French students are here and several adult French teacher chaperones are also here assisting. We are always available to respond and resolve any issue that might arise. Fortunately, we have extremely few problems, but we are always here to offer our assistance.
This is a wonderful opportunity for you and your family to make a friend in France! Great connections and enduring relationships can be created with this program!
