Moving abroad comes with a lot to take care of. Even more so when you bring your children along. On the one hand you want to make everything as smooth as possible. On the other hand, at some point, you just come in the rush of wanting to have things settled. Our head is taking over and what is getting attention most are all the practicalities: passports, schools, legislations, visa’s and what not.

Whereas the transition from one country to another is also thrilling in both good and bad ways. It already can be for us adults who can bring reason to most of it. But for a child it is all rather abstract. And when they have a good time at school and some nice friends it does not make sense for them at all.

Parents may stumble on resistance, withdrawal and anger. Or maybe it manifests itself more in tummy aches, restless sleep and difficulty to focus. There is also the possibility that a child at first glance doesn’t show any signs or might in fact be excited. Even then I think it is good to be aware that underneath it, it might take time to process things. After a while the excitement wears off once you have settled in the new country and reality might bring new challenges.

Guided art making or art therapy can help a child to process the transition, its thoughts and feelings in a playful way, where the focus lies in creating instead of talking about the situation.

The rhythm of a weekly art session can give some peace and steadiness in a time of change and turbulence.

Indirectly the own experience can come to the surface, in its own time and pace, which can lead to the child bringing up the subject by themselves if they feel the need for it.

Not only can it support a child before or during a move, but also afterwards when you’ve settled for some time already, but you notice your child can’t really seem to find its place or ease in the new situation.

Curious if this might be something for your child?