Top tips for moving abroad with children 

Moving abroad can be extremely exciting, whether you’re upping sticks to retire by the sunny Portuguese coast or starting a brand new career path in Singapore. However, if you’re moving with children, there are some things you’ll need to consider. It can be difficult for children to adjust to life in a new place - especially when moving abroad - but there are many ways to help them settle in, as we discuss here.

Be honest with them

Even if your children are only young, it’s important to consider their feelings towards moving abroad. It can be easy to discount their opinions and skate over the truth, but it’s important to make sure you discuss your move with them and answer any questions they may have. This will help put their mind at ease and give you the chance to settle any anxieties they’re experiencing.

Teach them about your new home country

Another great way to help your children prepare for life in a new country is to learn about the country together. This is also a brilliant opportunity to show how exciting moving abroad can be! There are many fun ways to do this, such as cooking the country’s national dish, watching a film about the country in question, or letting your children pin your journey on a big wall map.

Find the right time

Timing is essential when moving abroad. If possible, it’s always a good idea to wait until the end of your children’s school year and until any exams have been completed to make it easier for them to settle into their new school. However, be aware that the country you’re relocating to may have a completely different education system and term times, so it’s important to research this before you enrol them. After all, it will likely be much easier for your child to start a new school at the beginning of the term.

Enrol them in language classes

Arriving in a new place can be challenging, especially if you have a language barrier to contend with. This can be stressful for people of all ages, but children will find it particularly overwhelming if they aren’t able to communicate. For this reason, it’s a good idea to enrol them in language learning classes before you move abroad, giving them the opportunity to learn the basics, such as “my name is” and “I need the bathroom.”

Do your homework

No matter what, making sure your children receive a good standard of education is essential. Different countries have different schooling systems, so make sure you research the options available to each of your children in advance. Some cities will also have English-speaking international schools, which could be a good idea if you have older children who may find it difficult to pick up a new language quickly.

If you’re moving abroad, look no further than Rose Removals for an overseas removals service you can rely on. Based in Devon, we offer domestic and commercial removals in the UK, Europe and beyond, and are committed to helping our customers enjoy a seamless relocation every time. For more information about how we could help your move overseas, get in touch with us at Rose Removals today.