We always want what’s best for our little ones. We want to provide them with the best that we can in order for them to have happy lives and to grow into healthy, stable and well rounded adults. This can sometimes mean making tough decisions. For some parents, considering a move overseas can be one of these decisions. Many will worry about whether a move overseas will provide their child with a great opportunity and a better quality of life and standard of living, or whether it will simply disrupt their lives and cause trouble.
This is a partnered post.
At the end of the day, the right decision can only be made by you, as you have full insight of your individual circumstances, as well as your child’s personality, preferences and behaviour. But for now, let’s focus on a few different areas that you may want to take into consideration to make the right decision!
Why are you considering a move?
First and foremost, you need to consider why you’re considering a move. Is the move frivolous and to suit your own sense of adventure? Or is there a genuine, guaranteed benefit at the end of the tunnel in this new country of residence? Some people want to move for a job that has better pay, provides good benefits such as health care, includes private school, or other elements that could prove great for your kid. Some people want to move to be closer to family who can support their little one and create strong bonds and a great support network. Some people want to move to a country that has better circumstances and opportunities for your little one. You may be looking to move to be with a partner, and may be considering looking into spouse visa uk requirements. What you need to ensure is that the move benefits your kids somehow and will improve upon their lives.
Consider you child’s age
You should also consider your child’s age. Generally speaking, it’s easier to move with younger children than to move with older children. Younger kids don’t tend to have formed bonds with people in their local area who they will really miss. Older children may have friends at school and be more settled, making a move more difficult. If your kids are older, it would be worth talking to them about the move. Many will be more reluctant than enthusiastic. Talking with a therapist as a family can help with this if the move is essential.
Consider language barriers
Again, it’s easier to move a younger child to a country that speaks a different language to your native tongue. Younger kids tend to pick up languages more easily and can shift into a bilingual or multilingual lifestyle more easily. Older kids may struggle and begin to feel lonely, isolated or confused when you move. Invest in language lessons well in advance of the move if necessary and possible.
These are just a few areas of focus if you’re considering moving to another country with your kids. Hopefully, some of the information and suggestions will come in useful!
We hope that you found this post to be useful for you, do check out some of the other travel articles that we have on the site.
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We hope to see you on the site again soon,
Helen