By Sixiu Ye, Fanshawe College, Early Childhood Leadership. During her Parents2Partners internship, Sixiu focused on creating inclusive learning environments for children with special needs and newcomer families.
Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure for children, and it can also bring uncertainty and stress as they adjust to a new culture, school, and social world. Here is how the adults around them can help, and what children themselves can do.
How adults can help
- Create a welcoming environment that encourages empathy and cultural exchange.
- Offer language support in school and through classes.
- Build supportive relationships with teachers, mentors, and classmates.
- Make room for feelings. Let children share what they are going through.
- Invite cultural expression so children can share traditions and stories with pride.
- Provide school counseling from trained professionals when needed.
- Partner with parents and guardians through open communication.
- Celebrate achievements, big and small.
- Encourage activities and clubs that build friendships beyond the classroom.
- Teach coping and resilience skills.
Encouragement for children
- Be proud of your culture and share it with new friends.
- Practice the new language a little every day, at school and at play.
- Join clubs, sports, and community events.
- Learn how your new school works, and ask questions.
- Stay connected with family and friends back home.
- Remember that hard days are part of the journey, and it is okay to ask a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult for help.
- Say yes to new experiences.