Moving abroad opens up new opportunities and experiences for families, but it can also lead to a gradual disconnect from one’s roots, especially for children. As children grow up in a new environment, it’s easy for them to feel detached from their home country, particularly when the parents do not actively nurture those cultural ties. It’s crucial for parents to help children embrace both their new identity and the rich heritage of where they come from.
Understanding the Emotional Disconnect
Many children who move abroad at a young age or are born in a new country may grow up identifying solely with their current surroundings. Over time, they might lose interest in their native culture, language, and traditions, especially if those elements aren’t actively preserved at home. One of the often overlooked reasons for this is that parents, while trying to adjust themselves, unintentionally downplay their home country. Understandably, in cases like Nigeria, the economic and social challenges are real. However, constantly speaking negatively about one’s home country in front of children can create a sense of shame or rejection of their roots.
Parents must recognize that although they have moved for a better life, they are still foreigners in their new land. Their children, especially those born abroad, are at risk of growing up without a sense of true belonging neither fully here nor there. In this case, it’s essential to instill pride in where they come from, even while embracing the new.
Celebrating Cultural Traditions
Keep cultural celebrations alive at home. Mark holidays, cook traditional meals, play cultural music, or wear cultural attire during festive seasons. These small yet powerful acts reinforce a sense of identity and help children connect emotionally to their heritage.
Tip: Involve children in these celebrations. Let them learn the meaning behind traditions and take part in preparations. This will create cherished memories and strengthen their cultural ties.
Keeping the Language Alive
Language is one of the strongest links to a person’s heritage. Speak your native language at home or mix it into daily communication. Even if the child responds in the dominant language of the new country, continued exposure helps keep their linguistic connection alive.
Tip: Storytelling, songs, movies, and books in your home language can make learning fun and less forced.
Staying in Touch with Family Back Home
One of the most damaging effects of migration is when children grow up not knowing their extended family. Due to family disputes or emotional distance, some parents may cut ties or limit contact. While parents have every right to protect their well-being, children should not be deprived of the knowledge that they have family back home.
Tip: Arrange regular video calls, send gifts or letters, or even share stories about family members. If possible, plan visits to your home country so children can see where they come from.
Balancing Two Worlds
Teach your child that they don’t have to choose between their identity as a member of the new society and their cultural heritage. They can belong to both. Balance is key.
Encourage friendships across cultures, but also introduce them to children who share similar roots. This helps normalize dual identity and makes them feel less alone in their experience.
Final Thought
Your child’s connection to their roots depends largely on how you present it. If you value and celebrate your culture, they are more likely to do the same. It’s not about glorifying everything back home but recognizing its significance. Let your children grow up knowing where they come from, so they can stand tall wherever they go.
Let me know how has it been for you since you migrated with your kids? Please kindly share, like,comment and also subscribe. I am happy to hear from all of you. till my next post.
Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but for children, it can also be a confusing and emotionally challenging experience. As a parent, your support plays a critical role in helping your child navigate the transition and thrive in their new environment. From homesickness to language barriers and making new friends, children face a variety of obstacles but with the right approach, they can overcome them with resilience and confidence.
Understanding Your Child’s Emotional Needs
The first step in supporting your child is to understand the emotional impact that moving abroad can have on them. Children may experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anxiety, confusion, and even excitement. For younger children, the absence of familiar faces, routines, and surroundings can be particularly unsettling. Older children and teens may struggle with a loss of identity, the fear of not fitting in, and concern over leaving behind friendships and familiar environments.
Before the Move: Talk About It Early and Often One of the most powerful ways to prepare your child emotionally is to have honest, age-appropriate conversations about the move before it happens. Explain why the move is necessary not just what it means for the family as a whole, but how it impacts each individual child. For some families, the reason might be to reunite with a parent who already lives abroad. In these cases, emphasize the importance of being together as a family, creating new memories, and supporting one another in a new place.
If you’re moving for work, education, or better opportunities, explain this to your child in terms they can relate to. Help them understand that, while change can be difficult, it’s also a step forward and part of a bigger journey for the family.
Tip: Involve your child in the process. Allow them to ask questions, voice concerns, and even express fears. The goal is not to promise that everything will stay the same because it won’t but to make sure they know that you will be facing the changes together as a family.
Tailor the Conversation to Their Age
Young Children: Use simple, reassuring language. Explain the move using pictures, books, or playful methods to help them grasp what’s coming.
Teenagers: Give them space to process. They may be more resistant or emotionally conflicted, so create room for dialogue without pressure. Show that you trust their ability to adapt, while acknowledging the difficulty of leaving friends, schools, or routines behind.
Set Realistic Expectations and Share What You’ve Learned As a parent, it’s important to research the destination thoroughly so you can answer your child’s questions and prepare them realistically for what’s ahead. Whether it’s about school, lifestyle, cultural norms, or making new friends, your awareness helps ease their anxiety. Explain what changes they can expect like different school systems, moving down classes, possible language barriers, or even changes in food or weather and how you’ll all work together to adjust.
Migration is as natural as breathing, as eating, as sleeping.It is part of life, part of nature.
Reassure and Reaffirm Stability Above all, your child needs to know that even if the environment is changing, your presence and support are not. Assure them that they are not alone and that their feelings matter. Reiterate that as a parent, you are always there for them, no matter what.
Creating a Supportive Home Environment
A supportive home environment plays a critical role in helping your child feel safe and secure during the adjustment period. Establishing routines and maintaining familiar activities can provide a sense of comfort in a world that feels unfamiliar.
Tip: Create a comforting space where your child can retreat to when they need it. Whether it’s a cozy corner for reading, a space for personal hobbies, or simply a room filled with familiar items from home, a personal space can help them feel grounded.
Routines are another important aspect. While everything around them may be changing, keeping certain daily routines such as meal times, bedtimes, or family activities and been consistent can provide stability and predictability in their new life. This helps children feel less overwhelmed by the changes they are facing and gives them a sense of control in an unfamiliar world.
It’s also important to acknowledge that parents, too, are going through their own period of adjustment and shock. In many cases, families move to countries where they don’t have extended family or close friends to rely on. Unlike back home, where grandparents, neighbors, or siblings could help with childcare or emotional support, abroad you may only have your spouse or in the case of single parents, only yourself.
Juggling multiple jobs, managing household responsibilities, and trying to provide for the family can be overwhelming. However, it’s crucial to balance these demands with being emotionally present for your children. When children feel neglected, even unintentionally, they may retreat into silence or exhibit behavioral issues. Prioritizing time for your kids, however small can make a big difference in their ability to cope and connect.
Encouraging Open Communication
One of the most powerful tools you have as a parent is the ability to communicate openly with your child. Establishing regular check-ins, where your child feels safe to express their feelings, will help them process their emotions and gain a sense of connection with you during this time of transition.
To me, if life boils down to one thing, it’s movement
Tip: Ask open-ended questions, such as, “What was the best part of your day?” or “How are you feeling about school or making friends?” Let your child know that it’s okay to be nervous or upset, and that you are there to support them no matter what.
Encourage your child to share their experiences and concerns. Be patient and listen attentively, even if they’re not ready to talk right away. Over time, your child will come to understand that you are there to help them through the ups and downs of their journey.
Encouraging Social Interactions
Making new friends in a new country can be one of the most daunting challenges for children. For younger children, finding playmates in a new place can be overwhelming, while older children may worry about fitting in or dealing with cultural differences. Encouraging social interactions outside of the home is crucial to helping your child feel more integrated into their new environment.
Tip: Encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports teams where they can meet other children with similar interests. Many schools offer language support or after-school programs that can help children connect with their peers.
You can also seek out community events, playdates, or social groups for expatriates to help your child meet others who may be facing similar challenges. If language is a barrier, help your child practice and offer support in learning the new language. You can also connect with other parents who are also expats—this can help both you and your child feel less isolated and more connected to the local community.
Balancing Routine with New Experiences
While creating a stable routine is important, it’s also essential to introduce new experiences that will help your child embrace their new country. Exploring the culture, trying local foods, visiting landmarks, or attending festivals can help children see the positive side of their new environment and create lasting memories.
Tip: Take small steps to incorporate new experiences into your child’s life. Visit local museums, go for walks in nearby parks, or explore new hobbies that are unique to your new location. This will help your child feel excited about their new surroundings, while still offering comfort and stability through familiar routines.
In addition, involving your child in decision-making, such as choosing weekend activities or where to go for outings, can give them a sense of ownership in their new life. This encourages them to embrace the change and become more engaged with their new world.
Final Thoughts
Supporting your child through a move to a new country takes patience, understanding, and compassion. By recognizing their emotional needs, creating a supportive environment, encouraging open communication, fostering social interactions, and balancing routine with new experiences, you can help your child feel secure and confident in their new home. Remember that adjustment is a gradual process, and each child will move at their own pace. As a parent, your love, attention, and support will play a pivotal role in helping them thrive in their new environment.
Have you recently moved with your child? Share your tips for supporting children during a relocation in the comments below!
Welcome to Day 14 of our walking challenge! By now, you’ve covered a lot of ground, both literally and figuratively. Today, we’ll focus on an often overlooked but crucial part of any exercise routine: rest and recovery. Taking rest days is essential for your body to heal, rebuild, and grow stronger. Let’s explore why rest is important and suggest some activities for active recovery.
Walking and showing off Nails 🥰
The Importance of Rest Days:
Muscle Repair and Growth:
Walking, especially on varied terrains or with added intensity, can cause tiny tears in your muscle fibers. Rest days give your muscles the time they need to repair and grow stronger.
Preventing Injury:
Continuous walking without proper rest can lead to overuse injuries like shin splints, stress fractures, or tendonitis. Taking regular rest days helps prevent these injuries and keeps you walking longer.
Mental Health Benefits:
Rest days aren’t just for your body; they benefit your mind as well. Taking a break helps prevent burnout and keeps you motivated and excited about your walking routine.
Replenishing Energy Stores:
Your body uses glycogen (stored carbohydrates) for energy during exercise. Rest days allow your body to replenish these stores, ensuring you have enough energy for your next walk.
Activities for Active Recovery:
Light Stretching:
Gentle stretching can improve flexibility, reduce muscle tightness, and enhance blood flow to your muscles, aiding in recovery. Focus on stretching your legs, hips, and back.
Yoga:
Incorporating yoga into your rest days can provide both physical and mental benefits. Yoga helps stretch and strengthen muscles, improve balance, and reduce stress.
Foam Rolling:
Foam rolling is a form of self-myofascial release that helps alleviate muscle soreness and improve blood circulation. Spend a few minutes rolling out your legs, back, and any other tight areas.
Gentle Walks:
While it might sound counterintuitive, a gentle, low-intensity walk can actually aid recovery by increasing blood flow without putting too much strain on your muscles.
Hydration and Nutrition:
Proper hydration and nutrition are key components of recovery. Drink plenty of water and consume a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to support muscle repair and energy replenishment.
How do you incorporate rest and recovery into your fitness routine? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. For more guidance and updates, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog. Additionally, join our 5-DAY PRAYER WALK CHALLENGE: Rejuvenate Your Spirit on my YouTube channel. Watch the video below and please subscribe for more inspirational content!
Rest and recovery are vital components of any successful exercise routine, including walking. By incorporating rest days and active recovery activities, you ensure that your body heals, grows stronger, and stays injury-free. Remember, taking time to rest doesn’t mean you’re slacking off; it’s a necessary part of staying healthy and maintaining long-term fitness. So, take a break, relax, and get ready to hit the ground running (or walking) again soon!
Hello, everyone! 🥰 I realize that this extended break didn’t go as I had initially planned, but life had its own agenda. We’ll call it the “adventures of life.” Life happened. We can dive into that later, but for today, I want to share something related to this topic called: When and How to say ‚I do not know‘
In a world that often celebrates knowledge and expertise, it can be challenging to admit when we don’t have the answers. Whether you’re in a professional setting, a social gathering, or even within your own thoughts, the fear of appearing uninformed can hold you back. However, there’s a valuable skill in knowing when and how to say, “I don’t know.” This blog post will explore the importance of this admission and offer guidance on mastering the art of expressing your uncertainty.
The Power of Honesty
First and foremost, let’s recognize that admitting ignorance is not a sign of weakness; it’s a demonstration of honesty and integrity. People appreciate authenticity and are often more inclined to trust those who openly admit when they lack knowledge. Here’s why it’s crucial:
Builds Trust: When you admit you don’t know something, it shows you’re trustworthy. Others are more likely to believe in your knowledge when you do express it.
Fosters Learning: Acknowledging your gaps in knowledge opens the door to learning. It’s the first step toward acquiring new information and skills.
Avoids Misinformation: Pretending to know something you don’t can lead to spreading false information, which is harmful both personally and professionally.
When to Say “I Don’t Know”
The timing of expressing your lack of knowledge is as vital as the act itself. Here are some situations in which it’s beneficial to admit not knowing:
In a Professional Environment: When you’re faced with a question or problem at work, it’s better to acknowledge your ignorance and seek assistance or research rather than providing incorrect information.
During Conversations: In casual conversations or debates, saying “I don’t know” is an honest response. It’s okay not to be an expert on every topic.
Personal Growth: In your own self-reflection, it’s essential to acknowledge what you don’t know. This is the first step toward personal growth and development.
How to Articulate “I Don’t Know”
Expressing your lack of knowledge requires finesse. Here’s how to do it effectively:
Be Direct: Say it simply and directly. “I don’t know” is a complete and honest response.
Follow Up with Action: After admitting your lack of knowledge, turn it into an opportunity for growth. Say, “I don’t know, but I’m eager to learn more about it.”
Seek Help: If applicable, ask for guidance from someone who does know. This shows your willingness to learn.
Research: If the situation allows, commit to finding the answer on your own. This demonstrates initiative.
Conclusion
The ability to admit “I don’t know” is a valuable skill in both personal and professional life. It fosters trust, encourages learning, and avoids the pitfalls of misinformation. Remember, nobody knows everything, and there’s no shame in acknowledging what you don’t know. Master the art of this admission, and you’ll find yourself on a path to continuous growth and authenticity.
Please share your views on what you think we can be able to overcome the power of feeling if we say we don’t know we would be looked down upon.
A dose of positivity. A little positivity goes a long way.
I want to use this medium to say that positive vibes is contagious. You can’t always be a downer. I feel down most of the time when things do not go my way too.
I watched the film ”Living in Bondage” (Breaking free) on Netflix and it is the sequel of the film ”Living in Bondage” which tells the story of Nnamdi Okeke, a young man who seems sympathic and inexperienced. The story of Nnamdi is very relatable because he wears his frustrations right on his sleeves. Nnamdi quits his job in the hope of opening a company of his own, in the aim of achieving greater success. The dream of being Independent did not pull through. Nnamdi’s uncontrollable pursue of success – fast cars, easy living and flashy lifestyle made him set out for a muffing quest for the extensive life, one that he would do whatever it takes to achieve it. Moreover, the point to prove himself that he is the better son to his father inevitably took him on this precarious quest.
Andy Okeke (Nnamdi Okeke biological father) mysteriously learns about a son he never knew existed. He is warned that his son is going down the path which he (Andy) sought out 27 years ago. It is a life-threatening journey for him and he does not want his son to go down that same path. Of course, the reunion of father and son did not go well and Nnamdi decides not to heed to his father’s advice.
Finally, Nnamdi‘s discovers the magnitude of his actions. He faces an enormous and regrettable predicament that has eventually become his bondage. He struggles to break free. In order to prove his commitment to a cultist group, he is instructed to sacrifice a loved one. In the film, the viewer sees he loves two people immensely, his brother (Toby) and girlfriend (Kelly).
I know you ask yourself, why I have decided to add a summary of the film ”Living in Bondage” It is to make a statement that at the end of it all, what helped Nnamdi was the bond between him and his brother (Toby) who came to his rescue. The dose of positivity Toby gave Nnamdi was what saved him at the end. And here is a dialogue between Nnamdi and Toby👇🏾
Toby :Somehow, we will get through this. Remember when I bashed Daddy`s car do you remember what you told me? You said to me what you go through I go through you did not bash the car
Toby and Nnamdi: we bashed the car.
Toby: You are my brother, my blood till the very end.
They both hugged at the end doing their brother stunts with the hands.
I felt that this dialogue between him and his brother was what gave him the strength to be able to defeat the cult that was after his life.
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.
Leo Buscaglia
I am grateful, I have someone who is my Pillar and is there to always encourage me and tell me to share my worries. I am grateful for my parents who care about me and their prayers go before me. I am grateful for friends who whenever I call or texts, respond with the question (what is the way forward?) than berating me or telling me it was my fault.
Although we can find ourselves in a difficult time, we should have the courage to ask about the wellbeing of our neighbours, friends, colleagues, family members and also share some nice words with them which would go a long way. We do not know what any of them are passing through and you could be their joy that day or moment in time.
Kind words are short and easy to speak but their echos are truly endless
Mother Teresa
I hope you enjoy this post and do not forget to add a dose of Positivity in everything you do. Share your thoughts with me in the comment section below, like my post and do not forget to follow back.
Before I began writing this post I have trashed about 4 of this piece because every time I start I always ended up writing something else that was not related to it… you see my life?
Now I sit here chewing an Alnatura Kokos chocolate because am soo jittery and stressed.
Stress is something that kills a lot of people and has a lot of detrimental effect on our body, mind and health. We come across Stress in our daily life and think about how we can prevent our past deeds from reoccurring, in order to avoid being stressed.
This is our daily lives! Going to work, running to get the bus, train, trying to get the kids to school before work, go get them after work, sick, tired, family issues, parents ill, send money back home, school problems, house problems, Jobs on the low rise, People lose their keys, arrive late for appointments and forget to take important trips. Chaos, disorder and lack of plans make our lives difficult. They make our friends mad at us and we get holes in our teeth trying to put some order in it and so on.
I love this Tree!!! Its beauty is Awesome.🥰
Do you sometimes fantasize about an uncomplicated life? In which everything can be easy without having to deal with all the adversities of everyday life, errands, interruptions and other annoyances?
I do not know if this good life can be achieved.
Nowadays we try to make everything as simple and natural as possible. But can it be achieved? There is no such thing as a completely simple Stress-free life, but then if we had it, it would probably no longer be life.
The simplification of life is one of the steps to inner peace. A persistent simplification will create an inner and outer well-being that places harmony in one’s life.
Peace Pilgrim
Nevertheless, we should try to make it easier all the time, because it gets complicated by itself. If you don’t make an effort to maintain efficiency, simplicity and order, you soon sink into piles of paper, lose the overview and get overwhelmed with everything around you.
Chaos has always meant danger from the beginning of time. This is another reason why simplicity is a basic human need. The simplest way offers various steps that affect all important areas of your life: your things, your money, your time, your health, your fellow human beings, your partner, your ego and your spirituality.
Simplicity of living, if deliberately chosen, implies a compassionate approach to life. It means that we are choosing to live our daily lives with some degree of conscious appreciation of the condition of the rest of the world.
Duane Elgin
Struggles, difficulties are part of life’s business. The war we are in is finished. It is said in the Book now thanks be unto God who always causes us to triumph in Christ Jesus. For every battle of life for every difficulty, for every struggle, there is an assurance of victory over anything.
If if you ask me right? Princess how do you deal with your daily Stress hmm (thinking Deeply). I will say at every moment I am stressed, it is always a chain reaction which is from loosing my mind, then getting numb, then trying afterwards to get out of whatever situation I am finding myself in and I act on it immediately.
Truth be told Stress makes me act well. I found out when I am stressed I do things I think normally I would not be able to do it. It takes me out of my comfort zone and pushes me to do more.
Afterwards, I take out my Chilled Red wine (oh yes I like my Red wine chilled) and then drink it because finally I cannot come and kill myself…. 😂😂 I say to myself it will be alright because I am alive and grateful to be so.
My Lovelies how do you deal with your daily stress? What have you learnt about yourself when you are stressed? please do share your stories with me and also like the post and share also with your loved ones.
But I can’t, cause I miss the Talks, stupid talks and nothing talks.
I am trying to be tough
Even though I know I have been manipulated, lied to, treated badly and dehumanized.
I still come out of it all not looking back and knowing that one day, I would say to myself ‘oh I was tough and still am’.
But then I ask myself what went wrong?
Was it You? Your inhibitions? Your Exhibitions? Are you not able to perform? Are you not able to Conform to the rules? Your Fears? Your over happiness? Your …….
I am trying to be tough
But I have to talk to myself Because if I don’t, I might lose it.
I am trying to be tough
But then I start counting how lucky I am that I went through the Experience. And how lucky I am that I will still pass through more challenges.
I have to thank a whole lot of people who have in any way turned me down or tried to look down on me. Those people gave me a new perspective on life.
This all has thought me that I am worth it.
PassItOn.com
I am trying to be tough
But then I start from the beginning remembering what never existed… no memories…
Then I am tough.
Because then I remember I am Me and will be me and when I start realising that I need to get and set my standards straight then I will be tough.
I am tough
Because I hope and also believe that for me to be me I have to be tough and not try to be.
I have seen Arse lickers, i have seen people who belittle themselves or think if they lick arses they would be pitied or given a share or rather be favoured.
According to oxforddictionaries the definition is ;
You all know we live in an arse-licking economy.
The realisation of your entity or rather your life comes in when you feel shrunked, crowded or overpowered than you can imagine. Then you start Feeling that you have no choice than to give in or even start agreeing against your principles and practices.
This is the life we live in, making people bend into not what we envisioned for ourselves but for the purpose of comfort and peace to reign.
Have you ever thought about people who goes against the comfort of others are seen as aliens? Or people who refuse to lick arses are seen as non compromising, too loud, empty space and also as stupid people untill this people start making money, or start making waves and also been heard.
You don’t have to conform, you don’t have to be quiet, you don’t have to listen to anyone or other people choices for you!!, You don’t have to put other peoples consideration before yours, you don’t have to live behind the norm of the societies you live in.
YOU HAVE TO BE YOU.
I tell myself Princess be you. Don’t let anyone try to say, you too loud, or you too happy, or don’t sing any more, or you too local, or you too old, or you too skinny, or you too fat or you won’t make it life or in a relationship, or you too sick or too fit.
Look don’t let anyone decieve you in saying too much of everything is bad. I think it is better to be or have too much as too less. If you like something go for it and if you dont like something change it or rather leave it.
Rather than licking arses to get what you want stand up for yourself and get something done!!
You can share your thoughts and experience of what you think. Would love to know.
These words i chant to myself as i was on the train going to work, when i finally realised… i had to get out from this cocoon of laziness i set in my brain. Since this month began, i have had this feeling of .. i don’t give a f💟k attitude on not doing anything. Which has really been a pain to me, cause i feel weak and useless doing nothing.
If you are out there and also feeling this way… raise your hands please😂🙋🙋
There are many types of i dont give a f💝k attitude and mine was the one that can make someone loses focus on his/her purpose in life. 😢😢😢 and thats definitly not my aim.
On my last Post I spoke about ‘what is your Purpose in life’ seriously i began to doubt me, myself and I 😒🙆🙆 in the sense that in this month of January, I had a NULL, ZERO, NO Orientation and Motivation mood in either reading, going to the University, being creative or the zeal to go to work.
I told a friend of mine (Opons) her nickname. How I was feeling and she said if everyone was feeling this way, definitely not me and I said why not? I mean everyone goes through this Phase in life and even more. So why not me?
So dont beat yourself so much… at least that’s what i tell myself 😂😂👸👸 and I try to think positive and know that no Condition is Permanent.
Every year people set goals on what to achieve… and some say they do whatever pleases them… 😂or (as the spirit leads). But for people like me it has to be clear. I have to know how, when, and what I have to do in order to see my thinking or dreams comes to Realisation. Maybe it’s because am a Virgo…… 😕😕😕
Anyways I had to write this to tell anyone who reads this that regardless of what you are going through, sickness, hardship, no Motivation, no orientation, no money, or if you lose someone. Bear it in mind that you are not alone and no one can help you rise out of whatever pit you are in if you dont talk to yourself.
Talk to yourself… every day and also pray.
Please share with me and others in the comment section below on how this year been so far.
Happy new year my darlings and great success and achievement in everything you do.
P.S. I also devote this Text to my Cousins the Georgewills and pray God consoles them on losing their father my Uncle and a friend who lost her Mum.
PassItOn.com
