Jamie Harris, Extension Specialist

The Tennessee 4-H office is excited to announce that in 2022 we will begin working with States’ 4-H International Exchange to offer a summer exchange program with Japan! This is an amazing cultural opportunity for 4-H agents, teens, and families. Being a host family is an experience that will last a lifetime.

The States’ 4-H International Exchange Summer Inbound Program brings nearly 700 young people from around the globe to homes across America every summer. As members of American families, exchange participants experience the American way of life and share their own culture in a variety of ways. This experience will allow your family the opportunity to expand their global perspective while opening a brand-new world to a young person from overseas.

FAQ’s

What are the requirements for host families? To host a youth delegate, you must have a child living in your home who is the same gender and within 3 years of age of the host youth.

Example: Exchange student is 14/Child in host family could range between 11 and 17.  

How old are the delegates? Between the ages of 12-14.

I don’t have children living at home, can I host? Yes, we also need a host for the adult chaperone.

Will they speak English? All students will have studied English in school, but their speaking abilities are very limited.

What are the expectations of the host family? They will become a member of your family and participate in your daily life.

How long will they stay? 3 1/2 – 4 weeks.

When will they arrive? Mid-July/Mid-August (specific dates vary).

Will the exchange student be able to attend school with me? You will need to discuss with your school principal, but in most cases, the school is very open to having exchange students at their school.

How much will it cost? Lodging, meals, transportation, and any cultural excursion fees.

If you are interested in hosting a Japanese exchange student or an adult chaperone in the summer of 2022 contact your 4-H Agent for more information.