Moving overseas is a life-changing experience, but with kids, it gets even more complex. As a parent and expat coach, I understand the challenges of ensuring a smooth transition for children while managing your own adjustment. In this post, I’ll be sharing practical, age-appropriate tips to make the process simpler and more enjoyable for the whole family.

They become empowered and so excited about moving when planning is done with them. Give them small choices even though the big ones will be yours: let them pick a new color for their bedroom or select a decoration to put up in their room.

These small contributions give children a sense of control during what might otherwise feel overwhelming. Depending on their age, they can even help with online research, making the move feel like a family project rather than something happening to them.

Familiar objects are comforting for children during transitions. Be it a favorite toy, blanket, or sippy cup, make sure these items travel with them rather than in moving boxes. Having these familiar items readily available offers a sense of stability during the upheaval of moving.

You can even involve your child in the game of “packing” for his or her favorite toy. This playful activity helps them feel involved in the process of change.

Older children, particularly those aged 10 and up, can benefit from learning about cultural adjustment. Explain that they might experience a range of emotions—excitement about new experiences, sadness, or anxiety about leaving familiar ones. Use simple charts or resources to show that these feelings are normal and temporary.

Help your child build a vocabulary of their feelings, and keep the communication lines open. If applicable, share your own struggles to help model healthy ways of coping-reinforcing they are not alone in the process.

Routines give children security in unfamiliar settings. Whether this is through bedtime routines, “Pizza Fridays,” or family game night, continuing these may provide children with some sense of stability in their new surroundings.

When the novelty of the move wears off, life will go back to normal. Engage your child in establishing new traditions like “Taco Tuesdays” or Sunday breakfast-for-dinner. Grocery shopping for those meals is an awesome way to experience local supermarkets and learn about new products while establishing new family traditions.

For families that move a lot, forming some lighthearted traditions related to moving might create a sense of stability. Leave a message, note, or drawings on the wall before repainting; or plan for the first night pizza as the welcome-to-your-new-house meal.

These events offer kids something positive they could actually look forward to upon a change in environment-a terrifying occasion is then something very pleasant to encounter.

Building relationships before a move overseas can ease the transition. Find other families with similarly aged children through online forums or social media at your destination city. Arrange playdates for the kids or coffee dates for yourself to ensure you and the kids have a support network from day one.

Joining school: When registering at a school, ask about special online forums or events for international parents. Many schools offer initiatives aimed at helping families connect and settle in.

Technology bridges the gap between old and new. Schedule regular video calls with family and friends to keep the continuity going. This helps children remember that their loved ones are still present in their lives, even from afar.

Before the move, let your children say their goodbyes to friends and familiar places. It would be nice to make a scrapbook-physical or digital-filled with photos and memories of their home country. This will keep the contact alive and give them something to refer back to for fond memories of their roots.

As parents, we often put our children’s adjustment over and above our own well-being. Understandable, but at a high cost of ignoring your emotional well-being, it only adds to the household’s tension. Children can feel it-if you’re anxious.

Create an atmosphere of calm in the house by making time for self-care. Be more aware of yourself, listen to yourself, ask for help when you need it. In this way, you are in a good position to attend to your children.

Moving abroad with kids can be challenging, but with preparation and thoughtfulness, it can also be a rewarding family adventure. By involving your children, maintaining familiar routines, and fostering connections, you’ll create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Looking for more support with your international move? The Expat Journey Program provides personalized coaching and resources to help families settle into their new life abroad. Visit www.expatjourneyprogram.com to learn more.