MOVING KIDS AND CLOUDS

Often times, kids feel they are not as involved in an international move as they would like to be and their opinion has not been taken into consideration. It is important kids feel a sense of ownership about the move. A positive way to illustrate the ownership they can have in the move process is by creating a collection of various sized clouds.

Moving involves several large and small decisions.

Exercise: Moving Clouds
1. Illustrate the decision to move as the largest decision, with the word MOVE appropriately placed in the largest cloud.
2. Draw several smaller clouds to illustrate the several other decisions kids can still be a part of.
3. Remind them to speak up and voice their opinion. Keeping the lines of communication open is key to a successful move for kids and parents.

I recommend a few other resources to support kids moving abroad with their families.

Third Culture Kids: The Experience of Growing Up Among Worlds
In this 3rd edition of the ground-breaking, global classic, Ruth E. Van Reken and Michael V. Pollock, son of the late original co-author, David C. Pollock have significantly updated what is widely recognized as The TCK Bible. Emphasis is on the modern TCK and addressing the impact of technology, cultural complexity, diversity & inclusion and transitions. Includes new advice for parents and others for how to support TCKs as they navigate work, relationships, social settings and their own personal development. S

TCK World is dedicated to the support and understanding of Third Culture Kids (TCKs): Military Brats, Preachers' Kids, Foreign Service and Corporate Kids, and others who have lived as children in foreign cultures. This website provide resources for the parents and teachers of Third Culture Kids (TCKs) who are dealing with the many challenges of cross-cultural transitions, and Adult-TCKs (ATCKs).

Culture Shock! Successful Living Abroad: A Parent's Guide by Robin Pascoe
Robin Pascoe, author of Culture Shock-A Parent's Guide, knows what it is like to be a traveling wife and mother. Her children have been on the move since they were born, and her family has lived in a community of traveling families. The advice in this book is the result of her cumulative experience, as well as consultation with child psychologist.