Bonjour lecteurs! Moving to a new country with children is one of the biggest adventures a family can take on. There is the excitement of a new culture. But also a new school and making new friends. The first few weeks can feel unsettling, especially for little ones. But there are so many ways to make a new house feel like home.
Unpack the Children’s Rooms First
It is tempting to start with a common room. But setting up the children’s bedrooms first gives them a safe and familiar space as soon as you arrive.
With their own bedding, favourite soft toys and books, it will feel more like home straight away.
If you can, let them choose where a few things go. A sense of control helps children feel more secure when so much else around them is changing.
Keep Your Family Rituals Going
Routines are très importante to help the family settle down. Whether it is a bedtime story or a Friday night film with popcorn on the sofa, keeping your usual rituals sets things right.
It sends a clear message: the place has changed, but our family has not.
Try to restart these rituals as early as possible, even if the house is still full of boxes. A film night on a mattress in an empty living room can be so much fun for them.
Ship Less, Buy Local
Shipping a whole household overseas is expensive. Plus, slow and bulky items often take weeks or even months to arrive. It’s easier to keep it simple and buy bigger items once you’re there.
When you buy locally, everything suits the local plugs and power supply. Plus, you get a local warranty and support if anything goes wrong.
For families relocating to Manila, par exemple, Anson’s is an official Sony store in the Philippines with a range of Sony Bravia TVs that come with an official warranty. Even better, many models are available for next-day delivery or Click & Collect.
Bring a Taste of Home
Food is one of the quickest ways to feel at home. Pack a few favourite treats and don’t forget your family recipe book. This way, you can cook something familiar in the first few days. I can’t imagine moving abroad and not bringing some cheeky brioches and croissants for our first breakfast!
At the same time, enjoy trying local dishes together. Visiting markets and letting the children pick something new to taste turns a strange place into an adventure.
Explore Your Neighbourhood Together
Getting to know the area helps everyone feel less like a visitor. Walk to the nearest park, find the local bakery or café, and work out the route to school before term starts.
Children love having their own favourite places, whether it is a playground, an ice cream shop or a library.
It’s also worth joining school or parent groups to help you build a support network. After all, it takes a village to raise a child.
Stay Connected to Family Back Home
Moving far away from grandparents, cousins, and old friends is often the hardest part. Stay connected with your family back at home as much as you can.
Whether it’s a regular video call on WhatsApp or a shared photo album, children need to feel part of the wider family.
Some families set up a simple routine, such as a Sunday call with the grandparents. This way, the children always know when they will next see their faces.
Be Patient With Everyone, Including Yourself
Settling in takes time, and every family moves at its own pace. Some days the children will be full of excitement. Other times, they will miss home terribly. Both are completely normal.
Don’t rush things. The new house will fill with new memories and new favourite places. Before long, it will simply be home.
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