Ah amazing! I did the programme for 5 summers, best thing I ever did and I still speak to all my friends from camp regularly.
Tips:
- Definitely pack more socks than you think you'll need!
- They won't need lots of fancy clothes, a couple nice items will be enough.
- Tell them to throw themselves into every opportunity. I ended up helping out in sailing lessons and loved it (was mainly teaching drama there).
- Take advantage of the 30 day travel period after if possible, but don't stress about plans. They'll meet lots of other internationals at camp/they'll make American friends that they'll make plans with.
- Keep some kind of journal, whether it's a photo/video journal or a diary. Even if they only write a couple sentences a day. It goes by so quickly and I'm so glad I wrote down little private jokes, funny things that happened to remember.
- Take any home comforts, photos of family etc. The kids also love learning about your culture and most will not even know where the UK is (if you're from there). I took photos of home, a flag, etc.
- Take their address and send them a couple care packages throughout the summer. My mum used to send me chocolate, skittles, a little note and some photos and it was such a highlight after a busy week. The kids will also love to try British chocolate (even if it turns up in a weird shape!).
- Bring a portable fan or grab one at Walmart. A bum bag is also helpful.
- Most importantly, be in the moment!!! Don't stress about getting wifi, remind them everything at home will be there when they get back. Take in the views, make the best memories and have an amazing summer.
It really was the making of me and I could never speak about it more highly.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Hope they have the best summer!!