In this article, we’ve gathered some strategies to help make a big move a little easier for your little ones – and for you, too. And perhaps you have some tricks of your own that you’d like to share with us…
Very personal items
Sometimes expat parents learn the hard way – like when one member of our community packed all of her children’s favourite toys and books into a container that took six months to arrive. So make sure you keep a few favourites in your luggage! Also, consider including familiar items, such as pillowcases or beloved blankets that will give your child a sense of familiarity in a new place.
Make it make sense!
Global Connection consultant Josien Berkenvelder will always remember when her two-year-old daughter burst into tears after packing all their belongings into boxes. “She thought we were giving everything away to some random men (the movers)!” laughs Josien. “To help a kid understand the process, I suggest parents wrap some small gifts with their kids. Tell them: ‘This is for you! We’ll put it in this box and get it at our new home’ – hopefully it helps them understand that they’ll see these things again. Plus, they get a lovely surprise when the boxes arrive.”
Capture the old home
Joisen also recommends taking photos of your old home before moving. These can be printed out so your kids can show their new friends where they lived. “It helps them organise their memories and talk about their old life in a positive way,” adds Josien. “Maintaining contact with grandparents, family and old friends can also bring comfort – a simple video call over breakfast, lunch or dinner. And no need for a formal ‘tell me what you did today’ kind of chat. The goal is to keep routines and relationships feeling natural, not forced.”
Create meaningful keepsakes
As part of a class goodbye, Josien suggests purchasing a Jenga set – classmates and teachers can then sign or draw on individual bricks. “It’s easy to pack, fun to play, and when you do, it will feature happy memories,” says Joisen. Also, before your child starts daycare / school, ask for a visit to meet the teacher (if possible), explore the classroom, and see the playground. As Josien adds: “Familiarity always builds confidence.”
This article was originally published for the thousands of expat partners that Global Connection supports around the globe. It is reproduced here in its original form.
