Living with a guest family will in most cases be a new experience for you and perhaps also for your guest family. You may not know what to expect or how to behave. Below is a list of suggestions to help you in adjusting.

• Learn the name of every member in the family, including the dog or cat!
• Be genuinely interested in them (i.e. talk to them; ask questions about their interests and hobbies)
• Germans usually greet by shaking hands. Try it!
• Become aware of the daily routines in the households, (i.e. know when family members need to use the bathroom in order to be on time for work)
• Try to limit showers to 5 minutes because water and gas are extremely expensive in Germany.
• Ask about recycling (German households separate their trash; therefore they have trash cans for glass, paper, organics etc.).
• Keep your room and bathroom tidy.
• Switch off the lights when you leave a room.
• Ask to use the TV, radio and telephone.
• Germans generally close the doors (e.g. lounge, living room). This does not mean that you're not welcome!! Simply knock on the door and enter the room
• Meals: -Get to know the routine and adjust to it
  -Ask how breakfast is done (do they set the table or does everybody
  prepare his/her own)
  -Let them know if you will not be attending a meal
  -Help with general chores (e.g. washing dishes, setting the table)
• Ask for permission if you want to have guests over
• Join in activities that your host family plans but do not expect them to pay for everything.
• Let them know about your plans (they'll be worried if they don't know where you are.
• In case you would like to thank your guest family with a little gift, (which is not
  expected!). You can give it to them upon your arrival or departure. Something small like flowers, candy, wine, books/items from your home town, postcards etc. will do and will be highly appreciated.
• Remember that living in someone else's home is an adjustment for them as well as for you. Therefore, be patient, flexible and cooperative.
  
• HAVE FUN!