February 16, 2012
At school we incorporate ways to enhance our students’ culture awareness, widen their appreciation and seek to identify signs of any adjustment difficulties. But what about their parents?
On February 16 we commissioned a professional advisory group to deliver a sensitive and yet realistic approach to Western and Eastern differences and how to maximise one’s time within a “different” environment. Gathering in an off-campus venue, the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Qingdao, parents came together to share experiences and impressions, whilst gaining good advice about how to handle situations and expectations.
The consultant discussed the value of getting the balance right between reality and expectations–the further apart they become, the more stressed and tense a situation can be felt. Negative feelings can then begin. The description of a child in the East being told what was right and a child growing up in the West was being told what was right, proving that neither were the only “right” way, was a very true starting point. We can be born into preconceived ideas. The session was followed by a social lunch to heighten this opportunity to share the time.
Regardless of duration as an expatriate, one month, one year or longer, the session gave food for thought to all. To know that others have been in similar situations helps accept the path of struggle and take the direction to success.
