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SETTLING IN
139
October14
MOVING BLUES
Undertaking an international move is a necessity
for many families – especially when a parent gets
an offer they can’t refuse. Although stressful,
it’s often a big adventure for the grownups
and a chance for a fresh start. Unfortunately,
instead of our kids being equally enthusiastic,
some of them have to be dragged kicking and
screaming across the globe. What should one
do in these cases? We spoke with
Dover Court
Preparatory School
’s Director of Educational
Services, DRMAUREEN ROACH, and Regional
Commercial Manager, RICHARDDAVIES, to find
out what types of challenges our kidsmight face.
Do children of different ages cope differently?
Maureen:
Yes, they do, and it’s important for schools to watch
out for the signs. Some children become quiet and withdrawn,
others tearful; sometimes behavioural difficulties are displayed;
work standards can temporarily decline; others have frequent
stomach aches, headaches and other minor symptoms that
cannot be explained medically.
Richard:
It’s interesting; it seems to be the 12- to 15-year-olds
who suffer most, because at that age they’re developing strong
friendship groups. In my experience of moving around to each of
our schools, they’re always located in really cool cities with lots
to do, so the students generally settle in quickly.
The new curriculum and the grade or year that the child is going
into can also cause disruption. Lots of parents think that if they’re
sending their kids to a British school, it’ll be the same as the one
Are you sure your kids are happy?