Dear parents,
What an exciting time for you and your family! As you prepare for the thrilling journey into expat living, it’s essential to consider the unique needs and perspectives of your elementary school-aged littles.
Moving to a new country can be both exhilarating and challenging for this age group, and it’s crucial to provide them with the support and guidance they need to navigate this transition successfully. To assist you in preparing your young adventurers for the upcoming move, we’ve outlined some practical strategies tailored to their age group. Let’s explore how you can best prepare your elementary school-aged kids for this exciting new chapter.
Fostering Excitement and Curiosity
Encouraging a sense of anticipation and curiosity can help your elementary school-aged children approach the move with enthusiasm and openness. Take time to discuss the adventure that awaits – highlight the new experiences they’ll have, the friends they’ll make, and the opportunities for growth and learning in their new environment. Engage them in conversations about the cultural differences they may encounter and the exciting discoveries that await them in their new home.
Foster excitement by involving your children in the planning process. Encourage them to research the destination, explore maps, and learn about the local customs and traditions. Talk about the foods of the region, fun activities nearby, and top sites to visit in the new city. Create a sense of ownership and excitement by allowing them to contribute their ideas and preferences for the move.
Establishing a Sense of Familiarity and Comfort
Let’s face it, transitioning to a new country can be overwhelming for all of us, but especially for elementary school-aged children. It’s essential to provide them with a sense of familiarity and security amidst the changes. Involve your children in the packing process, allowing them to select cherished belongings, books, and mementos to bring with them to their new home.
Establish routines and rituals that remain consistent throughout the transition to provide stability and reassurance during this period of change.
Create a “moving day” kit for each child, personalized with their favorite snacks, activities, and comfort items. Include familiar toys, books, and games to provide a sense of continuity and comfort during the journey. Encourage your children to decorate their kits and make them their own special travel companions.
Pro tip: This is a great time to start a travel journal. Talk to your kids about writing about all that they’re feeling—from excitement to their biggest fears. Be sure to talk to them about looking forward to adding new and exciting journal entries once they’re settled in their new home and embarking on new adventures. One day, they’ll be able to look back at their entries and reflect on how far they’ve come—both literally and figuratively!
Addressing Concerns and Emotions
Moving abroad can evoke a range of emotions in the best of us and definitely in elementary school-aged children, from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and apprehension.
Patience is key to creating a safe and supportive environment where your children feel comfortable expressing their feelings and asking questions about the 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 children, allowing them to share their thoughts, feelings, and questions openly. Use storytelling and age-appropriate resources to help them understand the reasons for the move and alleviate any anxieties they may have. Emphasize the positive aspects of the move, such as new adventures, friendships, and opportunities for growth and learning.
By incorporating these strategies into your pre-move preparations, you can help your elementary school-aged children—and yourself—approach the transition with confidence, resilience, and excitement. Remember to settle into the process with empathy, patience, and plenty of reassurance, knowing that you’re laying the foundation for a successful and enriching experience abroad.
You can do this!
Erin