Learning English isn’t just about textbooks and classroom exercises—it’s about living the language. One of the most effective ways to learn a new language is through immersive experiences, and a homestay program offers a unique opportunity to do exactly that.
For international students, homestay experiences are valuable in language learning. When you choose to stay with a Canadian host family, you’re creating opportunities for authentic language practice while experiencing life in Canada.
What Is a Homestay?
A homestay is a type of student housing program that matches international students with local Canadian families who provide comfortable accommodation in a Canadian home. You’ll have your own private space while sharing common areas like the kitchen and living room with the homestay host and possibly other students.
Host families often provide meals and basic amenities, giving you a comfortable study base and a window into authentic Canadian culture. For students attending English language programs, this setup offers the unique opportunity to fully engage in daily life, sharing meals and conversations with their host families. It’s perfect for international students who want to focus on their studies while having a secure, welcoming place to stay.
→ Learn more: International Student Homestay vs Student Residence
How Homestay Language Programs Enhance Learning
The beauty of homestay programs is that they complement classroom learning perfectly. While language programs provide excellent structured English instruction during the day, your evenings and weekends at a homestay become an extension of your learning environment. Here’s how homestay language programs enhance foreign language learning.
Real-Life Language Practice
Traditional classroom and online learning settings are effective for teaching language skills like grammar, vocabulary, and structure, but nothing beats the organic learning that comes from immersion. By living with a local family, international students in a homestay program get constant opportunities to practice English in real-life scenarios.
Whether asking for more food at the dinner table, talking about their day, or navigating local customs, every interaction is a chance to reinforce their language skills. You’ll pick up new words and phrases without even trying just by hanging out and having fun with your host family and fellow homestay students. It’s like having a 24/7 English teacher, but way more fun!
Cultural Integration
Ever wondered how Canadian families live? Now’s your chance to find out. Living with homestay hosts introduces students to the subtleties of cultural norms and traditions.
Language is closely tied to culture, and homestay language programs offer a chance to experience local customs, traditions, and lifestyles firsthand. For example, homestay experiences can teach students local slang, idioms, and conversational cues that might not be covered in a classroom. You’ll learn the secret language of Canadian locals, including slang and jokes you’d never find in a textbook.
Supportive Environment
One of the biggest obstacles to learning a new language is the fear of making mistakes. What is a homestay if not a comfortable practice ground for developing English skills?
Your hosts understand you’re learning and won’t expect perfect English. They’re used to helping international students and know how to communicate patiently and clearly. Even if you only chat during dinner or about household routines, these simple daily interactions in a low-pressure setting help build confidence.
→ Learn more: Exciting ESL Activities for Teens at ILAC
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Long-Lasting Connections
Your Canadian experience is more than learning English—it’s about the friends you’ll make along the way. Through homestay language program activities, school events, and daily adventures, you’ll meet other international students from around the world who share your journey. You might practice English while exploring the city with your new Brazilian bestie, or picking up Mandarin phrases from your Taiwanese classmate.
These friendships often last long after your Canadian adventure ends, giving you a global network of connections and even more reasons to keep practicing your English. After all, what better way to stay in touch with friends from Korea, Spain, or Japan than in your shared language—English!
→ Learn more: How to Make Friends at a New School
Authentic Language Immersion with ILAC Homestays
Turn every “good morning” into a step toward fluency. At ILAC, your English journey combines the best of everything—dynamic classroom learning, authentic homestay experiences, and exciting student activities.
Immerse yourself in Canadian culture by living with carefully selected homestay families, where every conversation and shared moment helps boost your language skills. Join our vibrant community of students from 75+ countries, dive into exciting activities, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime. Our homestay placements are tailored to your preferences, so you’ll feel right at home while enhancing your language skills.
Ready to unlock the ultimate Canadian English learning experience? Join us at ILAC and immerse yourself in a community that celebrates growth and connection.
Let’s embark on this exciting journey together! Contact us today to find your perfect host family in Toronto or Vancouver.
