When it comes to the sheer quality of life, the theory says nomads have it better than settlers. Meeting different inspiring people, exchanging stories with foreign cultures, waking up to the sounds of unfamiliar chirping – all this, and more encourages us to practice flexibility, be tolerant, and stay open.
It’s especially good for our kids, the theory says.
But in practice, the benefits of leading such life might not yet be obvious to your children. They might seek comfort and stability for now, which means being surrounded by family and friends. That said, building stable relationships is hard to do when you’re frequently moving from one place to another.
Here’s how to make it easier, in five simple tips.
- Make Moving a Breeze
A move to another city, country, or continent doesn’t have to be a clean slate. Your kids shouldn’t have to start from zero every time you change your address. It might be healthy for them to stay surrounded by familiar things and toys, at least. If you must move, then try not to leave it all behind.
This is a complex family project, we realize. Perhaps you’ve gotten used to doing everything on your own, but there are people who can help you with both planning and execution. If you’re still anywhere near, consider packing services DC. Similar professional services are available everywhere in the world.
- Throw a Going Away Party
Also, don’t cut ties with people you’ve met during your stay.
Because children make friends much faster and easier than us adults, separating them from their classmates and neighbors can be really painful. Give them some time to say their goodbyes and make plans for future encounters, as staying in touch with friends is crucial for their emotional development.
Throwing a going away party is a great way to honor the time they’ve spent together with other local kids. Not only will it give them some much-needed closure, but it will also remind them that the relationships they’ve built in that place might not have to end there. Friendship knows no boundaries.
- Start Scrapbooking
Children can embrace nomadic life and stay excited about opening new chapters if they understand that moving around doesn’t mean losing their roots. It’s up to you as a parent to set a good example and show them how valuable and educational these experiences are. We are our memories, after all.
So why not make scrapbooking a family affair?
Give your kids access to the camera and let them capture what they see. Collect postcards together and write down every little anecdote that’s colored with local atmosphere and spirit. By keeping them busy and creative, scrapbooking will help them shake off the stress and anxiety of moving away.
- Embrace Technology
Having unlocked real-time connectivity, our race is finally free to indulge its nomadic instincts without compromising the social aspect of our modern-day life. Technology now allows us to defy physical boundaries and time zones, so much so that many parents are deciding to raise their kids as travelers.
And embracing technology has never been easier, too.
Even kids can learn to use Skype, Viber, or any other app that enables them to get through to their families and friends across the world. Make this real-time communication platforms a part of your everyday life and schedule regular video chats with people you’ve left behind. Always stay connected.
- Be a Wanderlust Teacher
Finally, teach your kids the art of globetrotting.
They will never understand the appeal if you don’t help them experience it first-hand. Enjoy traveling around yourself and be curious about every place you visit along the way. And since you must live on the move, visit as many of them as you can. Explore their hidden gems and add them to the scrapbook.
Traveling is great for kids’ development, as it introduces them to new things and teaches them the ways of the world. They’ll know everything about history, geography, and architecture long before another school year starts, not to mention the interest and kindness they’ll develop for all living things.
If you must be on a constant move, then at least make sure that your kids learn to see it as a bonding experience for your entire family and an opportunity to make even more friends. The world should feel like their oyster, and it is your responsibility as a parent to spark that love for wayfaring in them.
