Moving to another country with children presents unique challenges. As expatriate parents, we naturally want to protect our children and ensure their transition is as smooth as possible. However, in our eagerness to support them, we often unintentionally make common mistakes expatriate parents tend to make, hindering their integration process. Here, we’ll explore these common mistakes and offer practical solutions to avoid them:
1. Overprotecting your children: one of the most frequent mistakes expatriate parents make
Mistake:
Seeing their children struggling initially, many parents instinctively try to shield them from any discomfort or challenges.
How to avoid it:
Allow your children to experience small, manageable challenges from the very beginning. Equip them with the skills to handle conflicts independently, encourage them to interact with peers, and foster their autonomy in exploring their new environment.
2. Failing to establish clear routines early on
Mistake:
Assuming that making initial routines too flexible will speed up the children’s adaptation.
How to avoid it:
Set clear routines from day one—especially regarding meals, sleep, and homework schedules. A structured environment creates emotional security and significantly reduces anxiety during the adaptation phase.
3. Not reaching out to the school for support
Mistake:
Feeling hesitant about asking too many questions or believing you might inconvenience the school’s staff.
How to avoid it:
Keep in mind that the school expects and welcomes your inquiries. Establish open and regular communication with teachers and school staff right from the start. Never hesitate to ask for guidance or clarification when needed.
4. Ignoring or minimizing culture shock
Mistake:
Assuming that “children naturally adapt” and overlooking the emotional and cultural challenges they face.
How to avoid it:
Discuss cultural differences openly and regularly with your children. Validate their emotions, both positive and negative, and encourage them to express how they’re feeling. Explore new cultural customs together as a family.
5. Forcing friendships or activities
Mistake:
Trying too hard or moving too quickly to choose specific friends or extracurricular activities to accelerate integration.
How to avoid it:
Allow your child sufficient time to naturally select friendships and activities. Provide them with diverse opportunities, but let integration occur progressively and authentically.
Practical Conclusion
Adjusting to life in a new country isn’t easy, but by consciously avoiding these common mistakes expatriate parents often make, you’ll create a smoother, more supportive environment for your entire family. The key is balanced support, clear boundaries, and ongoing, open communication.
Need more advice or specific guidance?
Contact Numont School and we’ll be happy to support you throughout your exciting international journey.
You may also want to read Moving to Madrid with children: how to choose a British school
