Moving abroad with children

Moving to a new country can be stressful with children, but it can easily be turned into a fun experience with some preparation.

Here are a few tips to help if you are relocating with children:

Schools

Making sure that you choose the best schools for your children will be a high priority and key to helping them settle in when you arrive. If you organise this well in advance you can ensure that your children will have a place secured in the new school when they arrive. Prepare the documents you need to make an application at least six months in advance.

Many countries have good international schools, which cater to a variety of different languages and educational backgrounds.

If possible plan some trips to the country prior to moving and organise to visit schools. You will be able to look around the class room and meet the teachers to discuss any concerns you might have.

Fun activities

Ask your children to write a list of all the activities they want to do in the new area and then scout our where all the fun places are. You can look on google maps for the best parks, zoo’s and amusement parks. You can also identify any clubs they would like to be enrolled in.

Keeping in touch

If you give children the opportunity to keep in contact with their friends, it will give them some comfort that they aren’t completely leaving their old life behind. Encourage them to save contact details for their friends and if possible organise a time in the future where they can meet up.