10 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Moving Abroad with Children
Deciding if moving abroad with children is the right choice for your family is big and can be a life-changing decision. But no matter how much you prepare, there are always surprises along the way. As someone who’s been there recently, I’ve learned a lot from the process. Here are 10 things I wish I’d known before making the big move with my family—and tips to help your transition go more smoothly.
1. Researching Schools Takes Time
Finding the right school for your kids is one of the most important (and time-consuming) decisions you’ll make. Research local schools, international schools, world-schooling and homeschooling options well in advance. Be sure to consider factors like curriculum, language, commute times, and extracurricular opportunities.
Tip: Reach out to expat communities online for firsthand recommendations about schools in your destination. Facebook and Reddit can be great places to find local insight.
2. Paperwork and Bureaucracy Will Test Your Patience
From visas and residency permits to medical records and school enrollment documents, moving overseas involves a lot of paperwork. Start early and keep digital and physical copies of everything. We had to make multiple trips to the passport office for our visa application due to missing paperwork- don’t be like us!
3. Packing Light Is Hard
It’s tempting to pack everything your kids love, but shipping and luggage restrictions make it challenging. Focus on essentials, comfort items, and favorite toys. Because we are currently living at a “hardship” post, we ended up shipping a number of items to ourselves so we wouldn’t have to take them as checked or carry on luggage. Perhaps for your overseas move, you’ll be able to find whatever you need locally. For us, we wanted to make sure that our kids had a good number of their favorite items and comfort foods.
Tip: Involve your kids in the packing process to help them feel more in control of the move. We gave our 5 year old free rein of a large suitcase and told him he could pack whatever he wanted inside- he packed some items I wouldn’t have expected (nor prioritized) and I respected his choices, even if it meant biting my tongue when he chose to bring 1000+ Pokemon cards- they’re surprisingly heavy!
4. Adjusting Takes Longer Than You Think
Even if you’re excited about your new home, adjusting to a new country and culture takes time. The same goes for your kids. Expect a period of homesickness and allow space for everyone to process the change, including yourself.
For tips on how to navigate homesickness, read my post How to Help Your Child Navigate Homesickness While Traveling or Living Overseas.
5. Healthcare Is a Priority
Understanding the healthcare system in your new country is essential. Research local pediatricians, emergency services, and how health insurance works. Make sure your family’s vaccinations are up to date before the move.
Tip: Pack a basic medical kit with familiar medicines for the first few months as pediatric medicine can be hard to find in some countries. When you have a sick kid, venturing out to a pharmacy, possibly in an unfamiliar language and setting, is tough to do.
6. Your Kids Will Need Social Connections
Making friends is critical for helping kids feel happy and secure in a new environment. Look for playgroups, sports teams, or other activities where your children can meet peers.
Tip: Join local parenting or expat groups to find events and activities for families. If you can’t find any, head to a playground or playspace- it’s incredible how quickly kids can connect. I’ve often found my kid playing with other children, despite language barriers and age differences.
7. Language Barriers Can Be Overcome
If your new home has a different primary language, don’t worry—kids are often quicker to pick it up than adults. Enroll them in language classes or immersion programs to speed up the process.
Tip: Practice key phrases as a family to show your kids that everyone is learning together. We started out with Duo Lingo and will soon be starting with a local tutor.
8. Culture Shock Is Real (and Manageable)
Your family may experience culture shock at different times and in different ways. Acknowledge these feelings and talk about them openly. Encourage your kids to embrace the differences, recognize the challenges, and look for what they enjoy about their new home.
For tips on how to help support your child during transition, including conversation starters and questions, read my post Top 5 Tips for Supporting Children During Travel and Transition.
9. Do Research With Your Children
Empowering your children by involving them in the preparation process can ease their anxieties. Let them help research the destination or create a wish list of things they’re excited to do after the move.
Tip: Use maps, videos, or books to familiarize your kids with their new home ahead of time. We used Google Maps to look at the layout of the city as well as looked at YouTube Videos to get a better understanding of what to expect.
10. Building a Support Network Is Essential
Relocating with kids can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Connecting with other expat families or locals will make a huge difference for your own well-being and your children’s happiness.
Tip: What are the things that you love to do? Whether it’s a sport, hobby, craft, skill, etc. research local groups and find out if they have meet ups. I was surprised that Kinshasa has a regular craft cafe! Connecting with folks who have similar interests can help ease the transition.
Moving Abroad with Children: Closing Thoughts
Moving overseas with kids is a bold and sometimes chaotic adventure. While the journey comes with its fair share of challenges, it also offers endless opportunities for growth, connection, and unforgettable memories. By preparing thoughtfully and keeping a flexible mindset, you can make the transition smoother for your entire family.
What’s one thing you’re curious or concerned about when it comes to moving overseas with kids? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to help!
Want to connect, vent, chat with others in similar situations? Comment below and/or follow us on Instagram @fullpassportfamily.
