Helping Families Leave Well: ES Parent Transition Workshop

On Friday 11 April, the Elementary School Counselling Team hosted a meaningful Parent Transition Workshop titled “Leaving Well”, designed to support families preparing to move from Hanoi — whether relocating to a new country or returning home. The session offered a compassionate and practical space to reflect on the emotional journey of transition, not just for students, but for parents as well.

The workshop opened with guided discussions, where parents were invited to share how long they’ve been in Hanoi, where they’re heading next, and their biggest concerns about the move. This opening activity reminded everyone that transition is a shared experience, and no one is alone in navigating its complexities.

The counsellors introduced a key concept for healthy transitions — the RAFT model. RAFT stands for:

• Reconciliation – resolving emotional conflicts before departure
• Affirmation – expressing gratitude to people who have mattered
• Farewell – saying intentional goodbyes to people, places, and routines
• Think Destination – preparing emotionally and practically for what comes next

Parents were encouraged to model openness and emotional honesty with their children. Drawing on research from Third Culture Kids author David Pollock, the workshop emphasised that acknowledging grief or sadness does not diminish the value of the move — rather, it creates space for resilience, adaptability, and emotional growth.

A range of practical strategies was also shared to help parents support their children before, during, and after the move, including:

• Giving children input in certain decisions, like what to pack or how to say goodbye
• Keeping routines as stable as possible
• Taking time to say goodbye to special people and familiar places
• Creating opportunities for continued connection (e.g. postcards with the new address)
• Talking openly about the challenges and excitement of the transition
• Exploring new schools, towns, and cultures online ahead of time

Parents were reminded that upon arrival, the focus should be on emotional stability, not perfection. Establishing new routines early, being patient with the adjustment process, and staying connected to the school’s support systems — such as counsellors and orientation programmes — can make a world of difference.

The workshop concluded with a selection of hand-picked articles and resources for families looking to dive deeper into the topic of transitions. These include expert advice on moving abroad with children, helping students say goodbye, and easing into new environments.

 

Transitions are never easy, but with intention, care, and community, they can become opportunities to grow, reflect, and move forward well.