How to Handle a Move to Australia With Kids in Tow.
Emigrating by yourself is very different to emigrating with the whole family in tow. As you plan to move to Australia, you’ll need to know how to handle the process when taking children with you. Your children will need to understand what exactly is going on, so it’s up to you to do some preparation and ease their worries. Here’s how to go about it:
Plan Your Move
You need to take plenty of time to plan the move carefully when you have children. By involving them in the process, you’ll make sure they feel excited about it rather than apprehensive. Make sure you involve all of your children in decision making and discussions when they can join in, even if it’s just about airport parking in Melbourne.
Talk About Your Concerns
Children can feel sad and stressed when they are set to move to another country. You should remain aware that these feelings are just as strong as an adults, if not much stronger. Make sure they know that they come to talk to you about anything, and you won’t get angry with them. Ask them what they’re scared or anxious about, and give them as much comfort as you possibly can.
Use The Internet
The internet is a great resource for helping them better understand the move and even help them to become excited about it. Show them whereabouts in Australia you’ll be living, and pictures of the home you’re going to be moving to so they have an idea of what to expect. You could also show them their new school if it has a website. By equipping them with as much knowledge as possible they’ll feel much more secure and ready for the move.
Plan Your Goodbyes
If your child will no longer be having a birthday at home, allow them to have a nearly celebration with their friends if the event is close enough. Make sure they get all of their friends email and postal addresses, so they can keep in touch after you’ve moved. You could even plan a goodbye sleepover!
Time it Properly
It would be better for your children if they moved at the start of a new school term. This will allow your child to start the school year fresh, instead of having to put up with being called the ‘new kid’ for the rest of the term. Once you’ve settle in, you could host a welcoming celebration for your child’s new friends, to help them feel more at home.
Continue To Talk Through Their Worries
No matter how excited your child is about the move, they may still feel homesick as much as you do. Make sure you continue to talk through their worries with them, and allow them to speak freely about the way they feel.
Moving to Australia with your children doesn’t have to be a horrible experience, you just have to make sure you take the proper steps to prepare them for it. They will probably feel 10 times stronger than you about it all, so make sure you give them plenty of time to adjust.
