Are you considering hosting a young Spanish teenager and want to make them feel at home from the very beginning? First of all, congratulations! By opening your
home, you’re helping make a teenager’s dream come true. Spanish culture places
a strong emphasis on family, both nuclear and extended. This means that most
students will appreciate and enjoy family time, making an effort to bond with
you from the start.

FOOD and MEALS

Spanish cuisine is a key part of the famous Mediterranean diet. While not all teenagers may be expert chefs, they might surprise you with simple yet delicious dishes like Tortilla de Patatas, Gazpacho, and Patatas Bravas.

Depending on whether your family lives in a city or a small town, meal habits can vary. Some families may sit down together at least once or twice a day, while others
might pack a lunch to eat with friends. If you’d like your student to prepare
some meals, it’s important to explain, demonstrate, and teach them your kitchen
routines.

SCHOOL AND HOMEWORKS

There are several differences between Spanish schools and U.S. high schools beyond
structure and stages. U.S. high schools offer flexibility with electives, while
Spanish schools focus on core subjects like literature, math, science, social
sciences, a foreign language (usually English), and PE. Spanish students are
often not used to participating in class discussions, so it’s important to
emphasize the value of participation before they start.

FRIENDS AND SOCIAL LIFE

Spanish teenagers are usually part of a close-knit group of friends they’ve known since preschool. These bonds are reinforced at school, where they spend all day, every day, in the same classroom with the same group. Teenagers in Spain start going out at night earlier than their U.S. counterparts. They enjoy spending time with friends, going out to eat, or having a drink.

HOLIDAYS AND TRAVEL

Spanish people love spending holidays with their families, especially Christmas and Easter. Other holidays are often a time for travel. Small trips are always a great idea to explore new places and create lasting memories.

By opening your home to a Spanish exchange student, you’re not just providing a
place to stay; you’re creating a cross-cultural experience that will enrich
your life and theirs. Embrace the adventure, share your traditions, and enjoy
the opportunity to learn about Spanish culture firsthand. Together, you’ll
create unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships. So, get ready to
welcome your new family member and make their stay an incredible journey! Happy
Hosting!

With Love,

The team of 2Learn Group