Moving overseas is one of life’s most exciting adventures—but when you’re doing it with children, it’s also one of the most complex. Between packing up your home, arranging international shipping, handling paperwork, and helping your kids adapt to a new culture, it can feel like a full-time job (or two).

At BLUEmove International, we’ve helped countless families relocate around the world. Here’s our best advice for parents preparing to make an international move with children—so you can focus less on stress and more on the journey ahead.

1. Talk About the Move Early and Often

Children—especially younger ones—thrive on routine and predictability. Talking about your move well in advance helps them understand what’s happening and gives them time to process the change.

• Explain the reasons for the move in simple, positive terms.
• Show them pictures or videos of your new country and neighborhood.
• Encourage questions and answer them honestly—even if you don’t have all the answers yet.

When kids feel included in the process, they’re more likely to feel secure and excited rather than anxious.

2. Research Schools and Education Options Early

Finding the right school can make a huge difference in how smoothly your family adjusts abroad. Start researching international, local, or bilingual schools as soon as you know your destination.

• Curriculum compatibility with your current system (IB, British, American, etc.)
• Language of instruction and support for non-native speakers
• Location relative to your new home or workplace
• After-school programs and community engagement opportunities

BLUEmove International often helps families coordinate timing between school enrollments and shipment arrivals—so everything aligns smoothly.

3. Involve Kids in the Move

Giving your children small roles during the move helps them feel empowered. Younger kids can pack a “favorites” box with comfort items, while teens might enjoy researching your new city or planning weekend adventures.

Pro tip: Let each child carry a personal backpack for travel containing comfort items—like a stuffed animal, headphones, or snacks. These small touches can go a long way during a long flight or temporary housing stay.

4. Plan for Culture Shock

Adjusting to a new culture is exciting—but also challenging. Both parents and kids go through stages of adaptation, from initial excitement to moments of homesickness.

• Learn a few phrases in the local language together as a family.
• Keep familiar routines at first—like bedtime rituals or Sunday pancakes.
• Celebrate your home traditions abroad to maintain a sense of continuity.

Encourage your children to share their new experiences with family and friends back home through photos, calls, or even a shared travel blog.

5. Prepare for the Logistics

From passports and visas to vaccinations and international shipping, there’s a lot to manage before moving day. A trusted moving partner can make the process significantly easier.

At BLUEmove International, we help families with:

• Full-service door-to-door international moving
• Pet relocation assistance
• Temporary storage solutions
• Customs clearance and documentation support

We coordinate all the moving pieces—so you can focus on your family.

6. Give Everyone Time to Adjust

Even after the boxes are unpacked, settling in takes time. Each family member will adjust at their own pace. Celebrate small milestones—like your first grocery trip or the first day of school.

Be patient, stay flexible, and remember: moving abroad isn’t just a relocation—it’s a transformation. You’re giving your family the chance to grow, learn, and experience the world together.

✈️ Ready to Begin Your Family’s Next Chapter?

Whether you’re relocating to Europe, Asia, or anywhere in between, BLUEmove International is here to make your move smooth, safe, and stress-free. From expert packing to overseas coordination, we handle every detail with care—so your family can focus on the adventure ahead.

Request Your Free International Moving Quote