Homesickness is one of the most common things children suffer with when moving to a new country. Our new comic strip featuring the John Mason International Moving Gang explores the issues and helps to remind children that thanks to technology the world is a smaller place.
When you first find out that you’re moving, a million thoughts may race through your head. The next place those thoughts should go is simple: out of your mouth! If you’re afraid that you won’t make new friends, nervous about riding the bus with new children, or upset because you have to give up your position as captain of the football team, don’t keep it to yourself. Whatever you’re feeling, talk to your mum or dad about it. It is always better to talk about your feelings, even if your parent seems to have a lot of his or her own worries. Your parent will be glad you shared your feelings — and so will you.
Finding out about the new country you’ll be living can make you feel better for a couple of reasons. First, you’ll feel less nervous when you know what to expect, and second, you may start getting a little excited about the new place you’re headed to.
Settling in might take a little while. You might wake up in your new room and think, “Where am I?” Take it slow and give the new place a chance. Once your house is growing on you, it will probably be time to start at your new school. You need patience there, too. Little by little, you’ll make friends and feel at home in your new country. Maybe you were taking karate before, so you’ll want to find a new karate school where you can keep working on your green belt. Or maybe being in a new place will inspire you to try something new — like art classes, guitar lessons, or the basketball team. The more children you meet, the more your new town will feel like home.
And like Khloe Kiwi don’t forget to keep in touch with your old pals. It can be fun to message and video chat — and it can even be fun to send letters or postcards. Maybe your best friend from your old town will be able to visit you sometime. Then you can show off your new city and introduce him or her to your new friends.
Visit www.movinggang.com for more adventures and tips from John Mason International Moving Gang.
