Moving to a new country with children can be a daunting experience. There are, however, a few things you can do to ease the transition for everyone if you’re thinking about moving to Thailand with your family. One option worth exploring is sending your children to a Thai boarding school, which can provide them with an immersive cultural experience while also giving you some much-needed breathing space.
Before discussing the advantages of attending boarding school in Thailand, let’s look at some of the other things you should think about before relocating to the Land of Smiles with children.
Education in Thailand
The first thing you’ll want to research is education options for your children. While public schools in Thailand are free, the quality of education can vary widely. Many expats opt to send their kids to private international schools, which offer a more familiar curriculum and teaching style. Some of the most popular international schools in Thailand include Bangkok Patana School, International School Bangkok, and Harrow International School Bangkok.
Another option to consider is homeschooling. Homeschooling families are becoming more prevalent in Thailand, however, it’s still less frequent than in some other nations. Being able to customize your child’s education to meet their unique needs and interests is a benefit of homeschooling. The legal requirements for homeschooling in Thailand can be complicated, so be careful to conduct your homework and speak with a lawyer if necessary.
Adjusting to a New Culture
Anyone who relocates to a foreign nation may experience culture shock, but kids may experience it the most. They will be beginning over in a new setting after leaving behind all that is known to them, including their friends, school, and neighbourhood. It’s important to give your kids as much preparation before you go as you can to ease the transition.
One way to do this is to expose them to Thai culture before you move. This can be as simple as cooking Thai food together, learning some basic Thai phrases, or watching movies set in Thailand. The history and traditions of the nation can also be learned by reading books or watching videos.
Once you arrive in Thailand, try to immerse yourselves in the local culture as much as possible. Visit temples, attend festivals, and explore different parts of the country. Encourage your children to make friends with local kids and learn about their customs and traditions. This will not only help them adjust to their new home but also give them a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Thai way of life.
Thai Boarding Schools
Now, let’s talk about the benefits of sending your kids to a Thai boarding school. One advantage is that it can provide them with a truly immersive cultural experience. They’ll be living and studying alongside Thai students, learning the language, and participating in cultural activities. This can be a great way for them to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Thai culture, which will be invaluable as they navigate life in their new home.
Another advantage is that it can give you some much-needed space and time to settle into your new life in Thailand. Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, and having the added responsibility of caring for your children can make it even more challenging. By sending your kids to boarding school, you’ll be able to focus on your own transition without worrying about their education and well-being.
Of course, sending your children to boarding school is not a decision to be taken lightly. You’ll want to do your research, visit the school in person if possible, and talk to current students and parents to get a sense of the school’s culture and community. You’ll also want to consider the cost, which can be significant, and the potential impact on your family dynamic.
If you do decide that boarding school is the right choice for your family, there are a few things you can do to prepare your children. First, make sure they understand why they’re going to boarding school and what they can expect. Be honest about any challenges they may face and let them know that you’ll be there to support them every step of the way.
Additionally, it’s crucial to involve your kids as much as you can in decision-making. Let them tour the school with you, meet with the admissions team, and ask questions. This will help them feel more invested in the experience and give them a sense of control over their lives.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Thailand with kids can be a wonderful adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. By researching education options, preparing your children for a new culture, and considering the benefits of boarding school, you can make the transition smoother for everyone involved.
