How to be a Welcome Guest

Whatever the situation, you’ll want to be considerate of your host, and leave a good impression.  Here are some suggestions on how you can do that:

1.  Come with an invitation not just a drop-in “I’m here, you lucky people!”  (Even a phone call or text message from down the road is better than the shock of a totally unexpected visitor.)   Don’t always assume that people will be happy to see a surprise visit from you.

2.  Bring a small gift of appreciation to the host.  This could be a loaf of bread, some fruit, a bottle of wine, or cookies.  It doesn’t have to be fancy, just thoughtful.  And if you really want to be a hit, take a small gift for the children in the family.

3.  Let your host know your expected arrival time and be responsible enough to notify the host if there’s a delay or change in plans.  Keeping a meal waiting can get a visit off to a bad start. 

4.  Speak to, listen to, and be kind to everyone in the family, from the youngest to the oldest (and at least tolerate the family pet!)  Especially of you go to the home of a friend your age, don’t ignore your friend’s parents if they are present.  They are probably the ones paying for your food and washing your linens.  

5.  Look for things to do to help such as setting the table, clearing the dishes, washing the dishes, or playing games with the younger children.  A few people don’t want help, but others are more comfortable when the work is shared. 

6.  Keep your room neat.  Make the bed and pick up after yourself. 

7.  Respect the privacy of the family.  Don’t wander into rooms you haven’t been invited into or snoop through closets or cabinets.  In the same way, don’t spend a lot of time in your room with the doors closed.

8.  Speed up your bathroom rituals (unless there is a private guest bathroom).  Don’t monopolize the bathroom or leave all your things lying on the sink and shower after you use them, and hang your towel properly.