Having emigrated myself as a child from Germany to the Netherlands, and later with my own young family when our children were toddlers and preschoolers, I've navigated this journey twice. Here's my expert advice on emigrating with children today.
Emigrating is rarely a snap decision, though urgent circumstances like those faced by refugees can force a quick move—though that's more flight than planned emigration.
Before committing, thoroughly research your target country, especially with kids in tow. Key questions include:
Research online, join expat Facebook groups, and note the difference: company-sponsored moves handle logistics, while self-initiated ones require full planning.
When I moved as a child, a two-week Dutch holiday gave me a glimpse, easing my 10-year-old anxieties. Parents gained practical insights.
For our family emigration to Suriname, we leaped without prior visits, though my parents scouted three months ahead, securing a house (not recommended—too rushed). They updated us online. Despite risks, it worked out, but I advise vacation scouting first.
The move itself is stressful, but younger kids adapt easier. Mine were in preschool and kindergarten—new surroundings excited more than upset them.
For older children like I was, it's tougher: losing friends, familiar places, toys, and learning a new language hits hard.
Younger is better—under 7, transitions are seamless, including school changes.
After 7, ensure school equivalency. Age 11-12 (end of primary) works well as it aligns with secondary school shifts.
Teen years complicate things unless Dutch curriculum continues. Coordinate with local schools to avoid gaps. Dutch education's strong reputation eases switches abroad, but remigrating can challenge—local or international paths may not align perfectly. Specialized agencies help for Dutch studies upon return.
Update: After remigrating to the Netherlands, we're struggling culturally. We've identified as third culture kids (TCKs), also called global nomads.
TCKs grow up blending parents' home culture with the host country's, forming a unique third culture. I became one moving to the Netherlands; my kids, to Suriname.
Despite Dutch passports, we feel out of place. My daughter says, "White on the outside, Surinamese inside"—neither fully understanding nor understood here.
As an adult expat, I adapted before, but now struggle too. This 'reverse culture shock' is profound, prompting us to reconsider staying. Factor this in for emigration and potential returns.
