"Having only one hour a week to email was the hardest thing but knowing they were fine and seeing the pictures on the blog with all the smiley and happy faces was extremely helpful. At the end we realized that the full immersion was what contributed to an amazing experience and successful learning of the language."
Lali Kapanadze, Oviedo parent
"Embrace the communication policy. It's so good for them and for parents to detach a little bit and trust the process."
Julie Whitman, Almería parent
"You know your kid. Letting them have this experience is a huge gift. Be brave and let them go!"
Lisa Jankowski, Ciudad Real parent
"Challenge them to stick with the honor code and get uncomfortable with uncertainty and let them know that its OK to be uncomfortable!"
Craig Hittle, Saint-Brieuc parent
"Be supportive of your student, but don't pressure them to feel as if they must know and understand everything in the beginning. Encourage them to give themselves the grace to not be perfect. Struggles are just as beneficial to growth as successes are."
Maryjo Buckel, Saumur parent
"Ask a variety of questions in your emails to your child while they are traveling abroad and expect some venting from them! I would ask about what foods they tried, the host home, instructors, excursions, etc. Engage them to share what is exciting and challenging. I reminded her to be gentle with herself in a different country and new experience. I expressed my excitement for her and offered reassurance. I knew she had the opportunity to grow with this experience abroad on her own."
Renee Abplanalp, Oviedo parent
"Be proud of your student and encourage them to explore and experience as much as they can."
Graz parent
