When families decide to relocate to another country, it can trigger an array of emotions and feelings. Despite feelings of excitement and anticipation for a brand new adventure, it can also be a really challenging experience – especially for children. Whilst the financial resources available may ease some aspects of the transition, there are social, cultural, and emotional impacts that can significantly shape the trajectory of a child’s life. In this article, I will be discussing the challenges that children may face when relocating, and how families can support and make the transition easier for their young ones.

One of the most significant challenges that children may face when moving to a new country is feelings of resentment. Relocating often means leaving behind family, friends, familiar surroundings, and cultural norms. Having to leave all of this behind can leave children feeling extremely vulnerable, due to the disruption of their sense of stability and routine.  

Another challenge that children may face is the cultural adjustment. Every country has its own unique customs, traditions, and social norms, and adjusting to these differences can be difficult for children. Children may struggle to understand and adapt to these new norms, which can lead to feelings of confusion and disorientation. Particularly, relocating to a country that speaks a different language can be even more challenging. Children may struggle to communicate with others in the community and form bonds, which can cause isolation and frustration. This can be specifically challenging for teenagers, who may be more sensitive to social pressures and expectations from their peers.

Children may also struggle with the practical aspects of moving to a new country, whilst trying to figure out their new identity. When relocating, children have to adjust to different education systems – new teaching methods, curriculum, and academic expectations. Often, this transition requires additional support from teachers. Alongside this, children have to navigate building new social connections in their school, and feel connected to their new environment. The accumulation of these transitions can often make it even harder for a child to make sense of their new identity. They may face a lot of conflict between their previous identity and their new sense of belonging. This can be extremely difficult for children, especially if they do not want to let go of their old life.

So, how can parents support their children through this transition? Firstly, it is crucial for parents to be aware of the struggles that their children may face from relocating. If parents are naive to these struggles, it can often make things a lot harder, and they may not be prepared or equipped to support their child. One of the easiest things that parents can do is offer an open and easy line of communication. By openly talking about and involving their child in the decision to move, it will be less of an emotional shock to them. Discussing the culture of the new country, the language, schooling options, and extracurricular activities that they can be a part of will help ease the transition and gain more excitement than fear. To ease the transition further, parents can support their child in maintaining relationships with family and friends, through regular communication and planning regular visits.  

Overall, with the right support and preparation, children can easily and successfully adjust to their new environment. Due to the working demands of parents, often, they may not have as much time as they would like to support their child.  

The Language Alchemist’s partnership with Carfax Education provides holistic support and guidance for families relocating to a new country. The combined skills of an expert education consultant and a trusted life coach can offer a smooth and successful relocation experience, minimising the stress and challenges for the family as a whole.  

If you are in the process of this transition, please click here to contact Carfax Education and learn more about our relocation support services.  

This is a guest article, written by Tracy Jones from TJ Life, The Language Alchemist. Tracy is a trusted partner of Carfax Education, providing visionary coaching and wellbeing programmes for families and children.

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