In a recent blog, I shared strategies for international candidates to support their partner or spouse during a move. We all know that relocating can feel like a roller coaster, demanding open communication, patience, and understanding.
When children are involved, the challenges can multiply. As parents, the decision to move was yours to make. If it’s the right choice for your family, you don’t need to convince your kids to agree. Instead, focus on helping each child adjust and find ways to thrive in their new home.
Here are some ideas to help you navigate the journey together.
Involve the Kids Early On
Engage your children in the moving process from the very beginning. Start by discussing the destination and exploring the new culture together. Talk about what worries them, what excites them and work out what would make the move good for them.
Let them be involved in some of the decision making. What room will they have? What sports will they play? What will be the first meal in your new home?
Involving your children early and often, can ease their transition, reduce anxiety, and build their excitement about the new adventure.
Understand their perspectives
Regardless of how good your reasons are for moving; children will have their own views on it! Some might eagerly anticipate the adventure, while others may focus on what they’re leaving behind—friends, familiar surroundings, and routines.
Both perspectives are valid.. Enthusiasts, who like the idea of the move, often help the family stay positive by embracing new opportunities. Realists, who don’t like the idea of moving, needing time to think it through, help the family plan for potential challenges, Acknowledging and validating these reactions will provide each child with the support they need—whether it’s exploring their excitement or getting reassurance to help them process the journey ahead.
It’s important to acknowledge and validate both types of reactions, providing each child with the support they need—whether it’s exploring their excitement or getting reassurance to help them process the journey ahead.
Create a sense of home
When moving to a new country, it helps to bring along some familiar items from home—like your child’s favourite toys, books, or even special decorations. These little touches can make the new environment feel a bit more like home.
If you’re heading to a place where the food might be different or some of your usual favourites aren’t easily available, packing a few essential food items can be incredibly reassuring. Maybe pack some favourite snacks or pantry staples to help bridge the gap between the old and the new - bearing in mind New Zealand’s strict phytosanitary requirements about what foods can be brought into the country.
Encourage Connections
Helping your kids make new friends is a great way to ease their transition to a new place. One of the best ways to do this is by signing them up for local activities. Whether it’s sports, art classes, a playgroup or community events, getting them involved in something they enjoy can help them connect with other kids and start forming friendships.
Being around other kids can make yours feel less alone and more at ease with their new surroundings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way for them to learn about their new community and pick up new hobbies. They might feel a bit shy or unsure at first but that's totally normal. —building new friendships takes time.
Lead by example
Staying positive and supportive can make a huge difference for your kids during a big move. Children are great at picking up on their parents’ emotions, so if you stay upbeat and calm, it’ll help them feel more secure and confident.
Celebrate the little victories—like making a new friend, adjusting to a new school routine, or even trying new food for the first time. These small wins can boost their confidence and make the transition feel a bit easier. Plus, celebrating these moments can add a touch of fun to the process!
Remember, patience is key. There will be ups and downs, but also new friendships, exciting experiences, and lifelong memories. By being open, understanding, and keeping a positive outlook, you’re helping create a supportive environment where your children can feel more at ease and excited about their new adventure.
____________________________________________________________
Mobile Relocation connects you with what you need to thrive in New Zealand. Contact us today to talk about how we can carry your relocation burden.
If you are a recruiter or HR Professional bringing international talent to NZ Mobile Relocation has a range of settlement support services to suit your candidates and your business - from baseline support to meet Immigration New Zealand’s AEWV Accreditation requirements (Kiwi Launch Pad) through to personalised programmes to support your most valued international employees.
Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent.