Fall is a wonderful time to make memories and check-in with your international student! As the leaves change and the weather cools, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season together and help your student feel more connected to your family and community.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Take advantage of the beautiful fall weather and changing leaves.
- Go for a hike, corn maze adventure or hayride
- Take a scenic drive to see the fall colors
- Go apple or pumpkin picking
- Have a family picnic at a park
Experience Fall Traditions
Share some of the traditions that make fall special in your family.
- Carve or decorate pumpkins
- Have a bonfire and make s’mores
- Make homemade apple pie or other fall treats
- Watch a favorite fall movie together
Get Involved in the Community
Help your student experience more than life at home and school.
- Go to a football game or sporting event
- Enjoy a local concert, play or musical
- Attend a community fair or fall festival
- Give back by volunteering together
Check-in with Your Student
Spend time talking together to see how your student is doing. The newness of being in the US tends to wear off, and your student might begin feeling a little homesick. Fall is a great season to deepen trust and connection by introducing and enjoying activities together.
Talking about ways to encourage and help each other is a good start:
- Social Life – Is there good interaction or a need for opportunities?
- Academic Life – Is there progress or continued struggle?
- Spiritual Life – Is there openness to the gospel or an active faith?
- Home Life – Is there homesickness or a growing feeling of belonging?
This fall, look for opportunities to slow down, have fun, and experience the season together. Every shared meal, new tradition, and family outing is another chance to build a stronger relationship and make your cultural exchange experience meaningful for everyone.
Happy fall—and thank you for hosting!
