Dear Parents,
As you embark on the journey of relocating your family overseas, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially when it comes to preparing your youngest adventurers for the transition.
And I should know- I’ve done it, and not just once! To help ease the process and ensure a smooth adjustment for your little ones, I’ve compiled some practical strategies to guide you through this exciting chapter.
Let’s dive into how you can best prepare your littles for the upcoming move.
Cultivating Excitement and Curiosity
Instilling a sense of anticipation and wonder in your young ones can help pave the way for a positive outlook on the upcoming move. Take time to discuss the adventure that awaits – highlight the new friends they’ll make, the fascinating places they’ll explore, and the exciting experiences that lie ahead. Encourage their curiosity by engaging in age-appropriate conversations about the journey and the destination.
It should come as no surprise that I’m a big believer in fostering excitement through storytelling. Create simple narratives that capture their imagination and paint a vivid picture of the new opportunities awaiting them. Incorporate familiar characters or themes to make the stories relatable and engaging for your little explorer.
Creating a Sense of Familiarity and Comfort
Transitioning to a new environment can be daunting for young children, so it’s essential to provide them with a sense of familiarity and security amidst the changes. Involve your child in packing their belongings, including favorite toys, books, and comfort items, to maintain a sense of continuity and comfort during the move. Establishing routines and rituals that remain consistent throughout the transition can also provide reassurance and stability for your child.
Consider creating a “moving day” kit containing familiar items that your child can access easily during the journey. Pack comforting snacks, familiar toys, and a beloved blanket or stuffed animal to provide a sense of comfort and familiarity during the move.
Pro tip: One of my favorite ‘tricks’ is to spend about $5-10 at the Dollar Tree before a trip, stocking up on any and everything that could possibly be fun! Sure, there are toys, but don’t forget the aisle with office supplies, craft supplies, and even things like bandaids! (My daughter LOVED to stick- and restick- these all over our seat area because they leave no adhesive!) Wrap each item in cheap tissue paper (that you also purchase at Dollar Tree) and give your child one ‘present’ to unwrap each hour of your long flight or road trip. The added element of unwrapping a surprise is the cherry on top for littles!
Addressing Any Concerns and Emotions
Moving to a new country can evoke a range of emotions in young children, from excitement and curiosity to anxiety and apprehension.
Create a supportive environment where your child feels safe expressing their feelings and asking questions about the upcoming move.
Validate their emotions and reassure them that their concerns are heard and understood.
Encourage open communication and provide age-appropriate explanations about the changes ahead.
Set aside dedicated time to discuss the move with your child, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings openly.
Use simple language and concrete examples to help them understand the reasons for the move and alleviate any anxieties they may have.
Reassure them of your unwavering support and emphasize the exciting opportunities that await them in their new home.
Listen, I know how many moving parts there are in planning an overseas move, and I assure you that by incorporating these strategies into your pre-move preparations, you can not only help your young child navigate the transition with confidence and resilience, but it will go along way to making those other moving parts even smoother, too. Remember to approach the process with patience, empathy, and plenty of reassurance, knowing that you’re laying the foundation for a successful and enriching experience abroad.
You got this!
Erin