How To Cope When Your Child Plans A Gap Year

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Watching your children grow up and move away from home can be difficult, especially if they choose to take themselves overseas. If your children plan to spread their wings and fly the nest in search of distant shores don't despair, think of how much the experience is sure to benefit them instead. By spending some time travelling and exploring the world around them, your child is sure to pick up a range of skills perfect for helping them build a better future for themselves.

A gap year or a couple of months spent exploring the world will help your kids build their problem solving capabilities and widen their horizons, furnishing them with a variety of insight that are sure to help them when it comes to settling down and looking for full time employment. And if your children are planning to travel before undertaking a course of further study, you can rest assured they will arrive at their institution of choice well equipped to look after themselves after they've spent a little time exploring other cultures.

If you still find yourself trembling when you think of your child all alone in the big bad world, why not sit them down and share your fears with them before they go? Make a list of the things you are most worried about and talk about them calmly, you could be surprised by the answers you're given and the amount of thought your child has probably already put into their adventure. What ever you do, make sure you rein in your emotions and avoid letting it sound as though you don't think your child is responsible or adult enough to cope with travelling alone, as you're more likely to hurt their feelings than help.

Keep your fears in check and remember that while you may think of your children as remaining small and defenceless, the chances are they are anything but. What's more, the world is a much smaller place these days, making it easier for you to keep in touch. Whether it be through a social networking site, a selection of email, text messages or a nice long phone call, you'll find there are numerous ways for you to make sure your beloved child is safe and well.

It can be a good idea for you to agree specific times to touch base, that way you'll be able to avoid making your child feel smothered and also allow you to relax without having to hear from them every single day. Offer to be one to make calls, or to call back, as a way to entice your children to check in – they are likely to be travelling on a tight budget after all. Have a look at the calling options open to you and you're sure to find ways to save whether you need.

While you may find it difficult not to call your child as often as possible while they are away, it's better to step back and let them know you are there if they need you – as this will help them cut the ties and enjoy feeling self sufficient as they experience the world.

(Harvey McEwan)