How can you help your kids...   Helping your expat child to...

Last weeks before a relocation with kids - do your research!

24 September, 2015 11:56 

Following our relocation series (see the previous post on preparing kids for a relocation), I decided to put together a list of things, which I like to research before moving to another country. These would be specifically relevant for those moving with kids, so I won't mention the general issues, which you would have to deal with anyways, like house hunting, legal documents, etc.


1. Find points of reference


Local mothers forums and groups are great as they have more knowledge of the area and would be able to recommend a tried and tested place. It is possible that you don't speak the local language before the move, but you can always google translate the pages.


2. Medical



Another doctor I usually look up is a dentist. You could already research if there're any recommendations from local mothers on which one would be the best for you.

3. Education

A relocation company can help you out with this, but you'll still have to deal with a lot by yourself. State or private? Decision is yours. In any case, there will be deadlines for submitting applications (and, usually, not a lot of free places in expat schools). Find out what kind of rating is available for schools. Are there any online reviews from the parents? Check out locations, maybe you would want to find a house nearby one of the schools or kindergartens of your choice. If you already have a place to live, fill in the forms and apply for a place - it will take some time to process in any case.

4. Extra clubs


5. Parks, playgrounds, indoor play centres

Ask your relocation company or find by yourself online (don't forget about those mom forums!) where you could take your kids to run and play. No matter how busy you will be unpacking and sorting out an enormous to-do list right after the relocation, your kids will need to let their steam out and it's nice to know where you can take them to.

6. Domestic help/ nannies/ babysitters

Even if you never employed anyone before, it might be that the country you're moving to has very affordable domestic help options. For example, China or Philippines - you can get a great deal of help by employing someone for a fraction of a cost you would usually pay at home.

It is important to make sure that you're hiring a trustworthy person. Check out for recommendations from other expats online. 

7. Child friendly cafes and restaurants


8. Shopping

If you have a baby, you're probably used to some certain products, like nappies, formulas, cremes, etc. Check out whether you can find those in your new home town. If not - are there any alternatives? Sometimes, you can find an expat shop or an online shop that would be able to arrange an international delivery for you. 

9. Places of interest


10. Local events

Usually, you can find a list of events coming up in your new home town, posted online by a tourist board or expat community. Are there're any interesting festivals or funfairs coming up that could be of interest to your kids?Attending local events will be a great opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of a community you will be living in.




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