Transitions, Part 2: Transitions, Part 2 Making the most of the overseas experience for your children


“Third Culture” Experience: “Third Culture” Experience Your child is now living in a “third culture” which presents special opportunities and also has certain challenges. Opportunities: Friends from around the world, travel, world view, languages, cultural competency Challenges: inconsistent mother tongue development, potential loss of family and national roots, many new adjustments, mobile lifestyle and friends.


Definition of a TCK: Definition of a TCK A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is a person who has spent a part of his or her developmental years outside the parents’ culture. The TCK builds relationships to all of the cultures, while not having ownership in any. Although elements from each culture are assimilated into the TCK’s life experience, the sense of belonging is in relationship to others of similar background.” Dave Pollock


Challenges Facing Kids in Transition: Challenges Facing Kids in Transition Culture shock Anxiety over making new friends and wondering how they will fit in Losses Possible new language to learn and use Anxiety over “unfinished business”


Increasing a Sense of Roots: Increasing a Sense of Roots Build strong ties with your nuclear family Build strong ties with your extended international family Try to ship furniture and ‘sacred objects’, keeping a sense of continuity from house to house Build family traditions that are kept regardless of where you move Give gifts that reflect the country you are in Have fun!


The Nuclear Family: The Nuclear Family Parents and children rely heavily on one another The move may be easier on the wage-earner Five key principles can help families adjust to moving and to their new surroundings


Communication: Communication Have regular family discussions Remember different family members may feel differently about the move at different times Honor feelings – don’t try to “fix” another’s grief


Continuity: Continuity Constants are psychological necessities Ship as much as you possibly can Get involved in activities that interest your family as soon as possible Keep family routines consistent Maintain family traditions Create “welcome rituals” Ensure you have one place to which your family regularly returns


Collaboration: Collaboration Make decisions and problem-solve together Be realistic and age-appropriate Develop a consistent parenting style and disciplinary approaches


Closure: Closure Successful adjustment depends on bringing appropriate closure It’s not too late! Build a RAFT Reconciliation Affirmation Farewells Think destination


Cultural Confirmation: Cultural Confirmation Recognize that families change because of international exposure Make the most of your international opportunities Encourage family members to serve as “cultural informants” Travel as much as possible to see the new host country


What is Your Child Facing At School?: What is Your Child Facing At School? Different educational system Different language New friends New teachers and teaching methods Children may surprise you with their behavior


How to Help Your Child at School: How to Help Your Child at School Take an interest in their work Regular communication with the teacher Maintain progress in mother tongue Initiate playdates / facilitate friendships Meet other parents Be patient


More Steps Parents Can Take: More Steps Parents Can Take Respect your kids’ unique concerns Talk to them about the changes they are experiencing Make your children feel protected Comfort your children


Enjoy the journey!!: Enjoy the journey!!