CSL Families & Expectations 

Chinese families can be some of the warmest and most welcoming people alive. Living and interacting with them is hands down the best way to experience China's unique and vibrant culture. Don't be afraid to express yourself and share with them about your own culture. 

Moving in with a Chinese family is an extremely stimulating process, and they fully hope that you will become a part of their family unit. In order to ensure this happens smoothly, you should observe the following guidelines. While no formal teaching is required, you will be expected to offer your help and tutoring with either English or your mother tongue when necessary, mostly during normal conversation. 

*Know and respect the family's work, school, and sleep schedules. 

*Don't bring home any member of the opposite sex to stay the night without first clearing it with the family. This includes boyfriends and girlfriends. 

*Be conscious of daily habits and try to help out with everyday chores. 

*Share with them the different aspects of your native culture.

*Home stays are not a hotel / hostel. Try to avoid simply coming and going when you please. 

All in all, just try to be polite and have a helpful / cheerful attitude. The more you put into the program, the better everyone's experience will be! Each family we work with is interviewed and put through background checks to ensure that they speak English and offer the following amenities and a safe environment in their homes:

1 clean bedroom with bed and wardrobe, a clean bathroom with 24-hour hot water and wester toilets, TV, phone, wireless internet, heat/air conditioning, washing machine, a kitchen with working amenities, at least one meal per day, and an extra key for the visitor to carry with them. 

The screening process includes and inspection of the family's home, a general description of the nature of their work, school, and extra curricular activities/interests, an outline of their daily schedules, the length of availability for their home, and any other expectations the visitor might have. Furthermore, CSL gives money back to the families each month to ensure these amenities are kept up. 

Should you have any problems whatsoever with your family, please contact us directly and we will handle any and all issues that may arise. We hope that you enjoy your time with your family and that they allow you to gain valuable insight into the Chinese way of life.