"Transition is not fun, but it is predictable" Libby Stephens

Libby Stephens met with parents today to discuss Third Culture Kids and transitions.

Photo by GABE ZSIGMOND

"Graded is a transition school"

"Saying "Goodbye"is a process...Not an event"

"The most difficult country for a student to move to is his/her passport country."

"Mom and Dad, don't mock the culture."

Photo by GABE ZSIGMOND

The disease is curable but there are a few things to keep in mind.

• This is harder to address as the student gets older. 
• Procrastination includes putting off goodbyes.
• It's easier to leave a place if you're mad or upset with it. This becomes a coping mechanism. 

Reactions of the one who is left behind

• Betrayal - even when the student is not responsible for the decision to leave
• Grief - can be more difficult for the student who stays
• Relief
• Anger
• Excitement
• Enhancing Other Relationships

The "Rs" of Leaving Right

• Rites and Rituals
• Roles that they will give up (e.g. soccer player, student council representative)
• Responsibilities that will change
• Routines
• Relationships
• Residence
• Resources
• RAFT - 4 steps

R = Reconciliation - Who do you need to reconcile differences with before leaving?

A = Affirmation - Who are the important people who have been important to me while I was here?

F = Farewells - How will you say goodbye to the people, places, possessions, customs and traditions?

T = Think Destination and Expectations - How can you learn more about your new place?