What’s a Tía/Tío family?

A Tía/Tío family works with the host family to help a Language Ambassador feel welcome, experience American life and helps the host family if they need time without their guest.

Why should you become a Tía/Tío family?

• Our children benefit in many ways from a Spanish speaking language ambassador in their classroom and even more with extra time outside of school.

• You will get to know the LA better and allow your child(ren) to form a stronger bond with them.

• Spending time with an LA encourages your child(ren) to speak Spanish outside of school.

• The cultural exchange between your family and the LA will be a mutually enriching experience.

What does being a Tía/Tío family entail?

• The time commitment is flexible. Many families try to meet with their LA on a regular basis for outings to a museum, special event, restaurant or just dinner as a family together.

• We want each LA to have a positive experience and get to see as much as they can while they are here. This is not possible for the host families to do this on their own. Tía/Tío families help by providing additional opportunities and different experiences than the host families.

• You will work with the host family and the LA to find a schedule that works for everyone.

What to help with the LA program without the weekly/monthly commitment?

The Tía/Tío coordinator matches tío families with LAs & hosts. The commitment is about 10-20 hours for the school year. Most of the work is done just before school starts or in the first month of school. It can be done after kids are in bed or in a few minutes during the day. You will remain the main contact for extra activities for the LAs throughout the school year, but the time commitment is minimal.