Articles

Relocation is inevitable in this time and age of globalization. Expatriate relocation is a stressful affair especially when it’s across continents and countries. Selling/renting houses, shipping belongings, saying good-bye, worrying about life and work in the new country, are few of the pressures that one feels before and during a relocation.

Relocation with children increases the worries for parents. Research shows that all children react differently to relocation. Preschool kids may worry about being left behind or being separated from their parents. Elementary school kids are usually concerned about the change in their everyday routines, whereas, high school kids are concerned about fitting in. At times, Expat Child Syndrome (ECS), an emotional stress caused by foreign move has being seen in children aged between 10 to 15 years. ECS syndrome manifests itself differently in different kids and impacts some more than the others. It’s generally seen in kids who have relocated many times, making them frustrated at having to establish new social circles with every move.

If you’re embarking on a move, here are some tips to make the transition smoother:

• Keep them informed & involved:

As soon as you know of the possibility of relocation disclose the news to the kids and involve them in the process. Explain why and when will the move happen? Where will they live? Which school will they go to? Providing clarity to some of these questions will help reduce their anxiety.

• Introduce them to the host country:

Let the kids familiarize themselves by seeing pictures, magazines, brochures, movies, etc. about the new place.

• Explain how their stuff will be relocated :

Ensure them that all their personnel belongings will be packed in boxes and relocated to the new country.

• Involve them in the house hunting process:

If possible, take them on the house hunting trip. If they can’t accompany you, send or bring back pictures so they have an idea of where they will live.

• Choosing school for your child:

School is the center of your child’s universe. They will be happy, if they are happy at school. If possible, let the kids visit and explore the school before finalizing.

• Organize a goodbye party:

Plan a party where the kids can say good bye to all their friends. Encourage the kids to get the contact details of their friends to keep in touch.

• Familiarize & Explore the new place:

Once you have arrived at the new place, start moving around, eat at restaurants, see movies, go to the parks and also explore the new things in this country.

• Prioritize setting up their room:

On unpacking, setting up the kid’s room should be the top priority. Let your kids decorate their room. Having their stuff in place will work wonders for their settling in.

• Make the move an enjoyable experience:

It’s critical for parents to display a positive attitude towards the relocation; this enables the kids to feel safe and confident about the move.

• Ensure the child’s settled in school:

Once the kids join the new school, meet the teachers and the school counsellor to ensure that the kids have adjusted well into the new environment.

Vinti Mittal – Child Counsellor