Children adjust, or do not adjust, in different ways and at different speeds. Some may seem to adapt well at first and then later slip back, or vice versa. Building awareness among relocating families about the possibility of non-adjustment, and providing the resources to assist them, is a significant part of achieving successful relocation. Parents need to clearly watch their children's behaviors for at least the first six months. Remember, when children are miserable and lonely, a day at school can seem like an eternity.
Parents have to pencil school visitations into their schedule, no matter how busy they are.
During these visits they can speak to the teachers and visit class activities to see for themselves how their children are adjusting. Another means to develop awareness is to hold frequent family meetings. These get-togethers will provide an opportunity for the entire family to talk about their new location, school and work while sharing their feelings and challenges. The challenge of achieving successful family relocations deserves a high priority among corporate policies, and with some, it is. Increasing numbers of corporations, the military, missions and organizations such as USA Girl Scouts Overseas are taking steps to address the challenge of relocating children.