Best Time to Travel or Live Abroad with Children

The idea of traveling or living abroad with children is exhilarating yet daunting. As the world opens its doors post-pandemic, more families are contemplating this significant change. Drawing from my own experiences of growing up overseas, I’ve come to appreciate the myriad benefits and challenges of international living, especially for young families. If you're considering such an adventure, this guide is designed to help you make informed decisions about the right timing and approach for your family.

Having spent my formative years in various countries, I can attest to the unique perspectives and rich experiences that come with an international upbringing. My parents, both working in the US Foreign Service, allowed me the privilege of living in places like Manila, Lusaka, and Taipei. These diverse environments not only shaped my character but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for different cultures—a gift I wish to pass on to my children.

The thrill of adventure awaits

As a parent, I often find myself reflecting on how to provide my children with the most enriching childhood. The prospect of living abroad certainly adds an element of adventure to their upbringing. The term "best childhood" varies from one family to another, but generally encompasses joy, friendship, learning, and memorable experiences filled with adventure.

For families like mine who run internet-based businesses, the flexibility to live anywhere in the world opens up a treasure trove of opportunities. The idea of settling in a culturally rich environment, learning a new language, or simply exploring new landscapes is invigorating. Traveling has consistently uplifted my mood, and I envision that same joy for my children. Before they were born, my wife and I traveled extensively, visiting fascinating places like Prague and the stunning beaches of Malaysia, which contributed to our happiness and broadened our horizons.

Understanding childhood amnesia

One significant consideration when planning to live abroad with young children is childhood amnesia. Studies indicate that most adults have limited memories of their early years, particularly before the age of three. This raises an important question: is it worth relocating internationally at such a tender age?

Research suggests that while children may experience rich environments, their ability to retain memories doesn't fully develop until around five years old. My own memories from living abroad before this age are scant. I recall fleeting moments like tasting Pepsi in Lusaka or the frustration of waiting for a bathroom. These instances highlight how early experiences might not be as impactful in the long run.

Living abroad keeps life vibrant

Sigmund Freud's concept of "childhood amnesia" refers to the phenomenon where early memories fade over time. A study from Emory University even suggests that by the age of seven, many of our earliest memories dissipate. If you’re contemplating moving abroad with children under three years old, it’s crucial to realize that the experience may be more beneficial for you than for them. My wife and I made a point to travel extensively before our children arrived, knowing we’d be homebound during their early years.

To provide your children with the richest cultural experiences, it's advisable to wait until they are at least three years old before embarking on international adventures. This timing allows for a more meaningful engagement with diverse cultures and experiences.

Models for childhood experiences abroad

Based on our understanding of childhood development, we’ve crafted three different models to consider for raising children abroad. These models vary in commitment levels and focus on providing diverse experiences while balancing stability.

1. Anchor in a diverse city and travel extensively

The simplest approach is to remain anchored in a culturally rich city like San Francisco while dedicating summer and winter breaks to international travel. This model would allow our children to experience different countries over time. For instance, spending three months each summer in various countries would give them a taste of global cultures without losing their home base.

• Ideal for shorter, immersive experiences without long-term relocation.
• Opportunity to learn about various cultures in just a few months each year.
• Children can maintain friendships and community ties in their hometown.

2. Relocate to a family-friendly city and travel

Another option is moving to a more family-oriented city, such as Honolulu, known for its high density of children and strong community focus. Here, we could establish roots while still allowing for travels during breaks. This model combines the benefits of community support with the adventure of exploring new cultures.

• Access to a stable environment while nurturing family bonds.
• Closer proximity to family support networks.
• Opportunities for children to learn in a consistent educational environment.

3. Fully embrace international living

The most adventurous approach would be to live abroad entirely, rotating through different countries every few years. This model would involve immersing ourselves in new cultures for extended periods, allowing our children to build a more profound understanding of the world around them.

• Long-term exposure to diverse cultures and languages.
• Potential for deep friendships that can develop over extended periods.
• Educational opportunities tailored to different countries’ curricula.

Choosing your adventure

As I consider the possibility of living abroad once our oldest child turns five, I feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension. While I cherish the experiences I had growing up overseas, my wife’s perspective is different. She has not lived abroad extensively and prefers the familiarity and comfort of our current life. The logistics of relocating, adjusting our business operations, and the challenge of applying for schools weigh heavily on her mind.

Despite the challenges, the prospect of exposing our children to a wealth of experiences is enticing. I believe these adventures can cultivate resilience, adaptability, and global awareness in our children, enhancing their development in ways that a stable, unchanging environment may not.

Concerns about living abroad with kids

One of my greatest concerns about raising children in a foreign country is the potential for them to miss out on making deep, lasting friendships. My own experiences taught me that while I have fond memories from my childhood, the transient nature of moving frequently can make it difficult to maintain long-term relationships.

However, today's technology facilitates staying connected in ways that were not possible in the past. With social media and video chatting, maintaining friendships across distances is more manageable than ever before.

Benefits of traveling abroad with your kids

• Enhances language acquisition skills.
• Encourages children to step out of their comfort zones and make new friends.
• Provides firsthand experiences of diverse cultures and lifestyles.
• Makes them stand out in competitive college admissions processes.
• Fosters empathy and understanding for different cultures.
• Prepares them for a possible future in a globalized world.

While the pandemic has limited travel options for families, I anticipate waiting until my daughter turns five before embarking on international adventures. This timeline will ensure that both children can appreciate and remember their experiences abroad.

Protecting your family with life insurance

The unpredictability of life has been starkly highlighted by the pandemic. It's critical to ensure the financial security of our children, no matter where we are living. Securing life insurance is one way to protect your family’s future, especially if you plan to travel or relocate abroad.

It's essential to choose a policy that covers your liabilities and lasts long enough to support your children through their college years. Resources like PolicyGenius can help you find the best life insurance options that fit your family's needs.

Maximizing travel rewards for family adventures

For families planning to travel frequently, a travel rewards credit card can be a valuable asset. One popular choice is the Chase Freedom Unlimited, which offers excellent cash-back rewards on a variety of purchases without an annual fee.

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• No annual fees and introductory 0% APR for the first 15 months on purchases.
• Cash back rewards don’t expire as long as your account is active.

By utilizing these rewards, families can offset travel costs and make the most of their adventures. Accessing exclusive tips on saving and financial growth can further enhance your family’s ability to explore the world.

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