Unfortunately, in our terrorised world, horrific news stories, AIDS, SARS, crashes, natural disasters and kidnappings are not the stuff of which bedtime stories are made.

And Author Robin Pascoe is certainly no stranger to the subject of raising global nomads. In this, her fifth book for expatriate families, the renowned 'expat expert' takes a thought provoking, honest and humorous look at the challenges of parenting abroad.

Global nomads need limits and structure, to encourage stability. Pascoe's advice: "The largest lesson for children to learn is that survival in another culture often depends on a person's ability to bend a little and to cultivate understanding, patience and tolerance."

When to let go

Some parents in their newfound roles as socialites abroad juggling a whirlwind calendar, delegate the task of parenting to the help. Conversely, 'helicopter parents' hover over their children, over managing, over scheduling and over protecting them from developing a life of their own.

Quoting Dr Mel Levine, author of 'Ready or Not Here life Comes', "Parents who seem obsessed with delivering non-stop happiness for their kids may end up with children who, thanks to over indulgence, feel limitlessly entitled. Their feelings ultimately lead to a sense of invulnerability, a belief that they will always get whatever without any effort or self sacrifice." This can threaten their ability to form healthy relationships and gain proper job skills. Balanced, proactive parenting is needed.

The very nature of expatriate life (sometimes termed the country club life) has always been one of affluence and privilege. Nowadays there is so much more to buy, more ways to show off your wealth, and easy delivery. Behaviour has definitely changed with technology. However, it is worth mentioning that many expats (and their children) are still working for charities and making contributions in the countries where they are posted.

 1 2 3 4 Next >