Parent Guide To Raising Kids Overseas Volume: Essential Tips for a Successful Transition

Are you considering an overseas move with your family? Embarking on a new journey in a foreign country can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you have children. As a parent, it's important to ensure a smooth transition for your kids when raising them overseas.

Whether you are relocating for work, education, or any other reason, this comprehensive parent guide will provide you with essential tips and insights to make the transition easier for both you and your children. From preparing them emotionally to settling into a new environment, we have you covered.

1. Preparing for the Move

The first step in successfully raising kids overseas is proper preparation. This involves researching your new destination, understanding its culture, language, education system, healthcare, and safety standards. Equipping yourself with this knowledge will help you make informed decisions regarding your children's needs and well-being.

A Parent's Guide To Raising Kids Overseas (Volume Book 1)

by Einzelgänger (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	466 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	218 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

During this phase, involve your kids in the process. Explain to them why the move is happening and emphasize the positive aspects of living overseas. Encourage them to ask questions and address any concerns they may have. This will help alleviate their fears and create a sense of excitement about the upcoming adventure.

2. Language and Cultural Integration

One of the significant challenges for children when moving to a foreign country is adapting to a new language and culture. A critical aspect of their successful integration is language learning. Research language resources, tutors, schools, or language programs in your new location that can help your kids acquire the necessary language skills.

Furthermore, expose your children to the local culture even before the move. Familiarize them with traditional customs, rituals, and holidays of their new home. This will not only help in making new friends but also create a sense of belonging.

3. Education Options

Educational settings vary from country to country. Look into different education options available in your destination, such as foreign schools, international schools, or local schools with a curriculum that matches your preferences. Visit them before making a decision to assess the facilities, teaching standards, and extracurricular activities they offer.

Taking into account your child's interests and needs, make a list of potential schools and involve your child in the decision-making process. Their involvement will make them feel heard and empower them in this new experience.

4. Supporting Emotional Well-being

Moving abroad can be emotionally challenging for children, especially when leaving behind friends and familiar surroundings. Help them maintain strong connections with their loved ones by encouraging regular communication through video calls, emails, or handwritten letters.

Additionally, foster a supportive environment within the family by allowing your children to express their emotions openly. Encourage them to form new friendships and engage in activities that interest them. Joining local clubs or extracurricular classes can provide them with opportunities to explore their passions and build a strong support network.

5. Navigating the Healthcare System

Understanding the healthcare system of your new country is crucial for your children's well-being. Research and locate reputable healthcare providers, including doctors, dentists, and specialists. Familiarize yourself with the healthcare policies, insurance requirements, and emergency services available in your destination.

Additionally, ensure that your children's medical records, vaccinations, and necessary prescriptions are up to date. Keep a list of emergency numbers handy, along with any pertinent information for each family member.

6. Settling into a New Environment

One of the most exciting parts of living overseas is exploring your new surroundings. Engage your children in local activities and attractions to help them familiarize themselves with the new environment. This could include visiting museums, parks, historical sites, and attending cultural events.

Encourage them to immerse themselves in the local community by participating in events or volunteering opportunities. This will not only broaden their horizons but also help them develop appreciation and respect for their new home.

7. Patience and Flexibility

Raising kids overseas is a unique experience that demands patience and flexibility from parents. Understand that there may be times when your children encounter difficulties, language barriers, or culture shock. Encourage open communication, be their support system, and celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

Remember that adaptation takes time, and every child adjusts differently. Allow your children to navigate their new surroundings at their own pace while providing a nurturing and encouraging environment to support their growth.

Raising kids overseas can be an incredibly enriching experience for both parents and children alike. By adequately preparing, focusing on language and cultural integration, considering education options, nurturing their emotional well-being, navigating the healthcare system, settling into the new environment, and practicing patience and flexibility, you can ensure a smoother transition for your family.

Remember, it's important to be proactive, involve your children in decision-making processes, and provide them with a sense of stability during this exciting chapter in your lives. Enjoy the journey and embrace the learnings and opportunities that await you all.

A Parent's Guide To Raising Kids Overseas (Volume Book 1)

by Einzelgänger (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	466 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	218 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A Parent’s Guide To Raising Kids Overseas should be required reading for every parent who lives abroad... Let this book be your constant guide for action and solutions. Yes, it really is that good!”
-Andrew Hallam, Author, Millionaire Teacher and The Global Expatriate’s Guide To Investing

Being an effective parent isn't about being perfect; it's about being intentional.

Parenting is tough enough in your own backyard, so when an opportunity leads you and your family abroad, it seems like parenting takes on a whole new dimension. Dr. Jeff Devens, psychologist, counselor and twenty-two-year veteran educator in the international school community, skillfully addresses many of the issues parents face today in the context of living in an international setting and raising “third-culture kids.”

A must-have resource for parents,
counselors, educators:

• Learning strategies for moving children toward greater responsibility and independence.

• Comprehending the allurement of technology for youth, especially social media.

• Appreciating the differences between intelligence, choices, and life balance.

• Recognizing the underlying reasons, beyond culture, why teens use alcohol and what to do about it.

• Helping kids avoid the comparison trap.

• Understanding why values and beliefs matter when it comes to raising kids overseas, and why kids will need to hear your voice more than ever.

Jeff Devens, Ph.D., has worked in international education as a school psychologist, counselor, and classroom educator for over two decades. Growing up on public assistance and the only one in his family to graduate from high school, Dr. Devens has a unique appreciation for the pains families encounter. Caring adults and the grace of God made all the difference and shaped his future and practice. Currently, a school psychologist, counselor, and academic advisor at Singapore American School, Dr. Devens share's his international experience with his wife of 25 years, and two of their very own "third-culture kids."