My daughter's language camp/orientation was in Bremen, Germany, with 9 other YFU students of similar German proficiency. Each student lived with a different host family in the Bremen area. They attended German classes together and went on a variety of outings designed to increase their confidence with the German language and their awareness of German culture.
This time period coincided with the typical first stage of cultural adjustment: the honeymoon period. She loved everything about her time in Bremen. She loved Germany, her host family, the food, the other YFU students, the German students, school lunches, her classes, the outings, biking to school, the toothbrushes, the beds, and the independence. We definitely got the impression that "everything is better in Germany." She talked about never coming home.
We did know who her temporary host family was before she left for Germany, and we had Skyped with them before she left. They both spoke English very well and had lived in America some years ago. One of their children had been born here. They made Rachel feel at home and provided an excellent transition to her time in Germany.
As the American parent at home, you should relax and enjoy this time. Don't worry if your child is not calling or writing often. That is probably a good thing. After language camp and orientation (about 3 weeks), the students moved to their permanent placements all over Germany.
The second stage of cultural adjustment was looming . . .
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