As parents, nurturing a consistent bond with our children during their overseas studies is of crucial importance. Sometimes, it is us yearning to hold on as they embrace their newfound independence, while other times, they are the ones eager to explore the world beyond our embrace. Regardless, maintaining connection remains a shared goal, and with the aid of technology, communication is more accessible than ever. Yet, there are additional strategies to enrich this connection:
Establishing regular communication
First and foremost, establishing a regular communication routine is crucial. Initiate regular calls – perhaps once in the morning and once at bedtime. Adapt the frequency to your child’s age and level of attachment, all the while reassuring them of your proximity. Remember, your intent is their well-being, not appeasing your own longing.
Show genuine interest in their life abroad
Moreover, exhibit genuine curiosity about their life abroad during these conversations. Inquire about their academic endeavours, staying informed without micromanaging. Show interest in their burgeoning social life, and if they’re comfortable, engage with their friends via video calls. Sharing updates about home, relatives, and friends bridges the physical gap and ensures they remain rooted to their origins.
Send care packages
Sending care packages is a time-tested way to evoke joy in our children. Witness their faces light up with happiness upon receiving these tokens of affection from afar. Whether eagerly anticipated or a delightful surprise, these packages, filled with their favourite snacks and goodies, are proudly shared with newfound friends, solidifying their connection to home.
Schedule a regular get-together
Additionally, scheduling regular in-person get-togethers trumps any phone or video call. Plan visits to their overseas location, allowing them to proudly showcase their new surroundings. Alternatively, arrange for them to return home periodically, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt their studies. Exciting trips to either a favourite overseas city or a fresh destination provide a beacon of hope during bouts of homesickness.
Encourage independence and growth
Lastly, while maintaining a strong connection is paramount, it’s equally vital to foster independence and personal growth. Encourage them to seize every opportunity in their second home, to form lasting friendships, and to develop a sense of autonomy. Strive to strike a balance between staying involved and granting them the freedom to flourish, avoiding the pitfalls of micromanagement.
In conclusion, by establishing regular communication, showing genuine interest in their overseas life, sending thoughtful care packages, scheduling personal meetings, and encouraging independence, we can nurture a meaningful and lasting connection with our children as they embark on their overseas adventures.