This set of questions is meant as a guide to avoid trouble and misunderstandings.
Remember, there are no stupid questions.
Sample Questions to Ask Your Host Family
In general, ask the questions that you feel are the most important the first night and then ask the other questions over the next few days. Remember, when in doubt ask, and always try to be open and honest with your host family and your Rotary counselor. Good communication is essential for a successful exchange.
1. What do I call you? (by name or mum/dad)
2. What am I expected to do daily other than make my bed, always keep my room tidy, and clean the bathroom every time I use it?
3. What is the procedure for dirty clothes?
4. Where do I keep clothes until wash day?
5. Should I wash my own clothes and underclothes?
6. Should I iron my own clothes?
7. May I use the iron, washing machine, sewing machine at any time?
8. When is a convenient time for me to use the shower/bath (a.m. or p.m.)?
9. Where may I keep my toiletries?
10. May I use the family’s bathroom toiletries (toothpaste, soap, etc.), or am I responsible for purchasing my own?
11. What time will meals be served?
12. What can I do to assist at mealtimes (help prepare meals, set the table, wash dishes, empty garbage)?
13. May I help myself to food and drink any time or should I ask first?
14. What areas of the house are strictly private (parents’ bedroom, study/office)?
15. May I put pictures or posters in my room?
16. May I rearrange my bedroom?
17. What are your rules for me with regard to alcohol and smoking?
18. Where can I store my suitcases?
19. What time must I get up (on weekdays, on weekends)?
20. What time must I go to bed (on school nights, on weekends)?
21. What are the rules for going out at night and at what time must I be home? Can exceptions be made if I ask in advance?
22. May I have friends spend the night or visit during the day?
23. What are the rules about me using my telephone?
24. At what times should the telephone be switched off or muted?
25. In case of emergency or delay - who do I contact?
26. Is WIFI accessible and what are the codes?
27. At what times is it ok to use WIFI and are there restrictions on the use of WIFI?
28. What is the procedure for mailing letters? What address do I use to send you emails?
29. Do you have any dislikes, such as chewing gum, wearing a hat or curlers at the table, loud rock music, or smoking?
30. Do my host brothers or sisters have any dislikes?
31. What are the dates of your birthdays?
32. What are the transportation arrangements (car, bus, bike, walking, etc.)?
33. May I use the stereo, TV, computer, etc., at any time? Are there restrictions on computer and Internet use?
34. What are the rules about attending religious services?
35. Would you like me to phone home or text if I will be more than 30 minutes late?
36. When we go out as a family, should I pay for my own entrance fee, meals, etc.?
37. What arrangements should I make for school lunch?
38. Does the Rotary club pay my cost of travel to school?
39. Am I to attend Rotary club meetings? If yes, how will I get there?
40. What else can I do around the house (yard work, help clean, babysit)?
41. Where is the nearest (your favorite sport) club?
42. Is there anything else you would like me to know?
If language causes problems then First Night Questions from NAYEN can be useful.
Here you can get translations to other languages.
This can be supplemented with Second Day Questions.