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Strategies for a Global Move with Specific Requirements for Special Needs

Navigating an international move with a child having special requirements is no small feat. Here are some strategies to consider for a smoother transition into your new lifestyle.

Strategies for a Smooth Global Move with Special Requirements
Strategies for a Smooth Global Move with Special Requirements

Strategies for a Global Move with Specific Requirements for Special Needs

In early 2017, a family embarked on an international journey from Spain to New Zealand, with their two children, one of whom had special needs. The relocation, meticulously planned, was a testament to the family's commitment to providing the best possible environment for their child.

The family's preparations began two years prior to the move, with extensive research into schools in New Zealand that had a special needs unit. They were particularly interested in a mainstream school that could cater to their child's unique requirements. The family's diligence paid off, as they were able to secure a short-term lease on a house in the school zoning area five months before leaving Spain.

The family's special needs child was helped in understanding the move by his teacher, Ana Aldabalejo, weeks before the move. The child, although too young to fully grasp the magnitude of the move, was able to label and understand its implications. The family encouraged other parents in similar situations to discuss the move with their special needs child, emphasising the importance of inclusion and preparation.

The family's son had acquired basic vocabulary and could understand basic day-to-day vocabulary and simple instructions by the time of the move. However, neither of the children spoke English, and they identified more as Latino than Kiwis. To help them adapt, the family started teaching their son English one year before moving, through speech therapy in Madrid.

The family's careful planning allowed them to avoid weeks in a small apartment hotel and instead settle into their new home comfortably. The move was not without its challenges, but the family remained flexible, committing to a 6-month lease to keep options open for any changes.

Upon arrival, the family started the school year in the ordinary classroom, due to not yet being admitted to the special education classroom. However, the family was confident that the school had the necessary resources to manage their situation. The family's perseverance was rewarded when their son was eventually admitted to the special education classroom, allowing him to receive the tailored education he required.

The family made a stop at Hong Kong Disney World on their way to New Zealand as a special farewell gesture. This adventure, along with their careful planning and adaptability, made their international relocation a success.

When relocating a family with a child who has special needs internationally, it is crucial to approach the process with care, flexibility, and a focus on maintaining routines. By researching destinations, maintaining familiar routines, involving the child in planning, making logistical considerations, providing emotional support, addressing legal considerations, using technology for communication, and staying organised, families can make their international relocation smoother and more manageable.

  1. The family's preparation for the international move included enrolling their special needs child in speech therapy sessions to help him learn English, as they knew he would need it in his new lifestyle in New Zealand.
  2. During the family's travel from Spain to New Zealand, they recognized the importance of maintaining familiar routines for their special needs child, which they continued to uphold, even during the transition periods of the journey.

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