Moving internationally to a new country from Calgary is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a challenging experience, especially for children. As parents, it’s crucial to support and prepare your kids for the upcoming international move. In this blog, we will share valuable tips from Matco Calgary’s international movers to help you navigate the process smoothly while minimizing the emotional impact on your children. From dealing with their emotions to exploring cultural differences, we’ll cover key aspects to consider for a successful transition.
Address the Emotional Impact
Moving to a new country can trigger a range of emotions in children. It’s important to create a safe space for them to express their feelings. Encourage open communication and let them know it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement, anxiety, or sadness. Actively listen, validate their emotions, and provide reassurance. Assure them that it’s okay to miss their old home in Calgary while also emphasizing the opportunities and adventures that await them in the new country.
Maintain Open Communication
Keeping lines of communication open with your children is crucial throughout the moving process. Involve them in discussions about the move, address their concerns, and answer their questions honestly. Share information about the new country, its culture, and the things they can look forward to. Let them know they can approach you with any worries or doubts they may have. Having regular family meetings can provide a platform for everyone to express their thoughts and stay connected throughout the whole process of your international move from Calgary.
Involve Your Children in the Decision-Making
Empowering your children by involving them in decision-making can help them feel more in control of the situation. Try discussing aspects such as choosing a new home or school, exploring local attractions, or even planning weekend activities. By giving them a voice, they’ll feel a sense of ownership and develop a positive attitude toward the international move.
Research the Destination Country
Before your international move takes place, encourage your children to research the destination country. Learn about its geography, history, traditions, and cultural aspects. This will not only spark curiosity but also help them understand and appreciate the new environment. Utilize books, websites, documentaries, and even virtual tours to make the learning process engaging and interactive.
Explore Cultural Differences with Your Children
Moving to a new country means encountering a different culture. We recommend encouraging your children to embrace this opportunity by learning about the local customs, traditions, and language. Discuss the similarities and differences between their current home and the new country. You can also involve them in cooking traditional dishes or celebrating festivals from the new culture.
Packing Their Belongings
Involving children in the packing process can make them feel more connected to their belongings and ease the transition. Let them choose which toys, books, or personal items they want to take with them. When your Calgary international movers arrive and finish packing and wrapping their rooms, allow them to decorate their moving boxes, giving them a sense of ownership over their things. Encourage them to sort and organize their belongings, making the packing process a collaborative and engaging experience.
Saying Goodbye to Friends and Family in Calgary
Saying goodbye to loved ones can be emotionally challenging for children. Help them navigate this process by organizing farewell gatherings or playdates, allowing them to spend quality time with friends and family before leaving Calgary. Encourage them to exchange contact information, create keepsakes, or write letters to stay connected even after your international move.
Finding New Social Opportunities
Settling into a new country after your international move involves finding new social opportunities for your children. Research local clubs, sports teams, or community organizations that align with the interests they had at home in Calgary. Encourage them to participate in extracurricular activities or join school clubs, where they can meet new friends with shared hobbies. Consider reaching out to ex-pat communities or online Facebook groups that connect families in similar situations, creating a support network for both your children and you as parents.
Conclusion
Preparing your children for an international move requires careful planning, open communication, and a supportive environment. By addressing their emotions, involving them in decision-making, and fostering curiosity about the new country and its culture, you can help them embrace the big international move. With the assistance of Matco’s International Calgary Movers and the tips shared in this blog, your family can embark on this exciting adventure with confidence and create wonderful memories in your new home abroad!
Partner With Matco’s International Movers in Calgary
Matco Moving Solutions can help you with your local, long-distance or international move. We are a full-service moving company that is dedicated to delivering a stress-free and positive moving experience. We have locations in Calgary, Edmonton, Yellowknife, Whitehorse and Inuvik and over 55 years of moving experience and expertise.
Contact us today for a free moving quote and to learn how Matco can help you with your next move.