Moving to a new country is one of the toughest things a child can go through. While kids are adaptable, you will need to take steps to help them to settle. It’s not something that’ll happen overnight, but the right support will help a child feel like their new country is their home. Follow the tips below when you’re planning a big move.
Find something the child will like
While you’ve made the decision to move overseas, perhaps for a job or a better lifestyle, your child hasn’t made this choice. That’s why you may need to convince them that there’s something for them in the move.
This could be:
- A local swimming pool
- Easy access to the beach
- Local activities or events
- Joining a local expat kids’ group
Once your child knows there’s something for them abroad, they are more likely to settle into their new home.
Pick a great school for them
A good school will give your child the best start in life. But if you’re moving overseas, the right school can also help your child to settle much more quickly. If you’re worried about your child settling in, it’s best to look for an international school in Bangkok. This will mean they get a similar education to their home country, with lessons given in English. Also, there will usually be more extracurricular activities, which means that kids can get involved in the school community and make friends.
Spend quality time with your child
Most people move overseas for a better quality of life, and usually, that means a better work/life balance. When you move overseas, you should make sure you have some great family time planned that everyone can enjoy. The great thing about moving to a new country is that everything is new to you. You feel like a tourist at first, but in a good way. When you have spare time such as weekends, plan some days out and show your child that this overseas move can be good for the family.
It’s not easy to settle your child into a new country, but that doesn’t mean you should give up your dreams of being an expat. What’s important is making sure they have things that are just for them, such as the right activities and a great school. While it may take a while for them to adapt, most kids do end up enjoying their time overseas.
