Rules for Lions Youth Exchange
- No Drinking - alcohol is to be avoided, even if it is part of ritual, and
especially with minors.
- No Driving - students are forbidden to operate a motor vehicle while on
their exchange.
- No Drugs - illegal drugs are strictly forbidden.
- No Dating - romantic relationships cause confusion and emotional distress
on exchanges. They are not permitted.
- No Non-Exchange Travel - students may not travel to visit friends,
relatives, etc. without prior arrangements made between the student's parents,
and the youth exchange coordinators. Also, students may not leave their host
families early, or change their flights without the approval of their parents
and the youth exchange coordinator.
- No Exchange Extensions - students may not ask their host families for
permission to stay longer than the period of time originally agreed to. If
this occurs, contact the youth exchange coordinator immediately.
The behaviors forbidden in these rules above can be dangerous, and can also
lead to definite emotional, psychological, and/or physical stress. They shift
the student's focus away from learning and fostering cooperation.
These rules are serious.
Any student found in violation of them may be sent home without question.
Other Important Items
- Jet Lag - Remember your student is from a different time zone
(usually 8 hours ahead of us). He/she has also traveled several hours. Your
student will be very tired upon arrival and will need sleep. Don't expect too
much for the first few days. Keep activities small, and don't plan anything
for the day of his/her arrival.
- Money - Some students arrive with a lot of spending money. Others
arrive with very little. Discuss with your student how much money they have
for spending and tailor your activities accordingly. You may wish to pay for
your student in some cases, which is perfectly acceptable. Be sure though that
both you and your student understand who will pay for what, and how often.
Neither of you should expect the other to incur great expenses.
- Activities - Ask your student what interests him/her, and what
he/she would like to see or do while with you. Also tell your student what
attractions and activities are in your community and surrounding area. Let
them choose some, but also don't be afraid to choose some yourself. You know
best what would be most interesting and educational for your student. Don't
force anyone to do anything that they are opposed to doing, or that they are
completely uninterested in, but expect your student to listen to your
suggestions, and show interest in at least some of them.
- Family Life - Treat your student like he/she is part of your family.
This includes giving them encouragement and/or discipline when needed. Expect
help with regular chores (dinner dishes, groceries, etc.), but also give your
student space and privacy. Explain the rules of your house to your student,
and help him/her understand how things normally work in your family. They will
need help understanding which kinds of behaviors are acceptable, and which
ones are not.
- Details - Make sure your student contacts his/her parents as soon as
he/she arrives. You may wish to speak with the parents as well to offer
reassurance. Find a place to safely store your student's passport, medical
insurance, plane tickets, and any other important information. Help your
student confirm his/her flights no later than 72 hours prior to departure.
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