Expats who plan to move from Beijing need to take extra caution on handling their kids' feelings as they change school and meet new friends. (Photo : Getty Images)
Moving away from Beijing is a challenge for expats and their families, according to a report by the Global Times. Adjusting to a new school, meeting new teachers, and making new friends can be tough for children.
"As the time to say goodbye to Beijing gets closer, he becomes a little anxious, for he is going to leave his friends and go back to friends he doesn't quite remember," narrates Theresa Ahdieh, who has lived in the city for five years together with her son Ty. She and her family are planning to move to the U.S. once the school term ends.
To prepare her son for their upcoming move, Ahdieh brings Ty to his favorite places in Beijing, including a recreational center, a park and a swimming pool. She says she wants to help her son create more memories while they are in China.
After living in Beijing for two years, Mellissa Burnell also aims to return to the U.S. soon together with her family. Burnell says that children must not be left out when making decisions. During one of her conversations with her son, Burnell asked him what he wants to do to keep his friends in mind. Her son replied that he wants a locket containing a photo of his best friend.
"It's very important for parents to ask their kids what they would like to do to say goodbye to their friends," said Stephanie Tebow, a counselor at the Harrow International School in Beijing. Parents should get creative and discuss what would be most meaningful to each child individually. She believes that it is recommended for kids to get closure as they leave their school, friends, and the rest of the city.
Tebow added that one of the things that families should do to help the child adjust to the new surroundings is to keep them busy. It is important to aid their kids in finding new things that interest them when they finally move to a new home.
