Care & Feeding | We’re Moving Abroad To Escape Trump
Jan 23, 2025
auto_awesome
Dan Kois, a writer at Slate and father of two, shares his family's decision to move abroad amid political shifts. He discusses the practicalities of relocating, particularly regarding language learning and cultural integration. Dan emphasizes the emotional challenges for children and the importance of community connections in new countries. Reflecting on their personal journey, he explores the complexities of expatriate life and the balance between cherishing roots and embracing new experiences.
Families moving abroad often seek better quality of life and unique cultural experiences for their children amidst political turmoil.
Transitioning to a new culture involves both learning the local language and actively engaging with the community for deeper integration.
The emotional journey of relocation can lead to feelings of culture shock and isolation, but also strengthens family bonds through shared experiences.
Deep dives
Reasons for Moving Abroad
Many families are considering moving abroad, particularly in response to political and social climates back home. The motivations can include seeking a safer environment, better quality of life, or an overall desire for a change of scenery. For many parents, the opportunity to provide their children with unique cultural experiences and different educational systems is also a strong incentive. The emotional weight of such decisions often weighs heavily on families, prompting them to weigh their options carefully.
Language Acquisition Challenges
Transitioning to a new country with a different primary language poses significant challenges for families, particularly with young children. Parents often worry about their children's ability to learn the new language and adapt to the environment, stressing the importance of immersing kids in local culture through schools and social activities. There are proven benefits to early language exposure, as young children are often more adept at picking up new languages, given their developmental flexibility. Shared experiences, such as enrolling children in local schools or community groups, can facilitate language acquisition for both kids and parents.
Navigating Cultural Integration
Successfully integrating into a new culture requires proactive efforts from families, including learning the local language and participating in community life. While expatriate groups can provide emotional support, forming deeper connections with local residents enriches the experience and fosters a sense of belonging. Challenges often arise when language barriers impede social interactions, making it essential for families to engage with local communities actively. Embracing local customs and building genuine friendships can transform a daunting relocation into a rewarding adventure.
Emotional Turmoil and Adjustment
The emotional journey of moving abroad often presents unforeseen challenges, including feelings of isolation and culture shock. Upon returning home, many families encounter the stark contrast between their former lives and the complexities of adjusting back to familiar surroundings. The transition may prompt self-reflection and reinforce family bonds, as shared experiences abroad become part of the family's identity. Understanding that cultural differences exist in every country can also help families manage their expectations and navigate their new lives effectively.
Practical Considerations for Educational Systems
Parents are encouraged to involve their children in discussions regarding the move to foster a sense of agency and anticipation for the new adventure. As families settle into new educational systems, the emphasis should be on prioritizing social connections alongside practical logistics. Engaging in community activities and accepting social invitations helps families acclimate to their environment and helps children forge friendships more easily. The logistical complexity of international moves is evident, but the lasting emotional and cultural rewards often outweigh the initial challenges.
On this episode: Dan Kois joins Elizabeth and Zak for a conversation about moving abroad. We got a question recently from a listener who’s moving because of the new president… so while we’ll answer her question about picking up a new language, we’ll also talk about what moving abroad can, and can’t, fix for your family.
Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes. You can also call our phone line: (646) 357-9318.
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get to hang out with us on the Plus Playground every week for a whole additional grab-bag of content — and you’ll get an ad-free experience across the network. And you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Care and Feeding. Sign up now at slate.com/careplus – or try it out on Apple Podcasts.