Job Discussion Forums

KidAndMe · Joined: 24 Jul 2003 Posts: 7

hello! i have been out of the teaching game for the past 9 years -- working in my home country (Canada) and raising a wonderful 8 year old daughter.

i wish to return to teaching and travel (TEFLA, Canadian and British passports in hand), but haven't a clue whether or not this is feasible.

If you have tried travel and work with kid in tow, please share your experiences, so i can make an informed decision.

Which countries are most likely to welcome a teacher who has a child along? Which countries are not welcoming?

Any and all help, advice and illuminations on the subject most appreciated!

thanks,
myra
Smile

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Depending on the age of your child, daycare and education are the two biggest factors to consider.

In Japan, daycare and babysitting are almost non-existent.

International schooling is extremely expensive.

Capergirl · Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2003 12:06 am Post subject:

Hi Myra

I'm considering the same thing you are right now, although my daughter is much younger...she's 3 (almost 4). I am teaching ESL in Canada at the moment, but I really want to go back to EFL teaching within the next year. I'm currently checking out my options. Japan seems like a good one, but I haven't made up my mind as yet. I do have a friend in Japan now with a son the same age as my daughter so I have some information from him re: preschools, etc. I don't think it will be a piece of cake by any means. However, I feel that it's something I just have to do. Wink

I should tell you that my boss spent three years in Indonesia and her daughter was 8 when they went over. They stayed with an Indonesian family and were treated like an extension of that family. There were servants who looked after the kids (her daughter and the family's children) and her daughter attended the local school (not an international school, which as Glenski pointed out would be very expensive). She picked up the language quickly and did very well in school. Actually, the only regret my boss has is coming back to Canada. Razz

gecko · Joined: 11 Apr 2003 Posts: 42

You may also want to consider getting a joc at an international school (that's if you are well qualified). Most of them will give free placement to your child.

Roger · Joined: 19 Jan 2003 Posts: 9138

There have been posts on similar topics in the past, and some people did not take kindly to some observations. I am willing to risk a flame war again though not absolutely looking for it.
FIrst thing, what Mom likes to do may not appeal to little Lizzy. An eight-year old needs stability and reliability. She is used to her friends and a certain setting. Going abroad can be unsettling if not traumatising.
Why does it have to be abroad? FOr your own gratification (totally justifiable, in my view, but needing to be counterbalanced by your child's needs).
What attracts you overseas that is not available to you in Canada?
If it is 'Nowheretown is so boring", I think you should think about your priorities more seriously. Civilisation fatigue is one thing, but the ability to integrate into a foreign country is quite another.
There are Westerners in China with their children. Some suddenly are gone. Others stay on for a couple of years. Most face a schooling dilemma. International schools are beyond a TEFLer's means. Local schools are not suitable and not child-friendly enough.
Add to these problems the precarious nature of your employment possibilities, and you will have to agree you should think very hard before committing yourself.

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

If you are qualified to teach under US or UK regs then you should consider a job in an International School. Other jobs are not going to pay you enough to allow you to educate your child.

Or you could be really brave and risk your sanity and that of your child by going to Koirea and sending the child to a local school ! Brave ? Or foolhardy ?

There have been frequent postings on this question and many answers were strongly opposed. Others thought it would be great for the child.

Yoiu have to think this one through. Personally I think it is a no-no.
Certainly in the Middle East you would have great problems finding a job.

guty · Joined: 10 Apr 2003 Posts: 365 Location: on holiday

Im thinking of coming to Saudi in Autumn with wife and, by then, 4 month old. My wife is happy to be at home full time with the Bairn, have we overlooked anything? Ive worked in the Gulf before but was younger freer and singler, what are the main problems we might face?
I was happy with health care previously, education is not yet an issue, maybe boredom for her?
Any advice appreciated

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

guty,

You'll probably have more luck getting answers if you post in the Middle East forum.

KidAndMe · Joined: 24 Jul 2003 Posts: 7

wow! what wonderful replies -- many thanks.

My daughter is portable -- wouldn't consider it otherwise.

Great suggestions re an International School -- i will begin initial looks there.

thanks again,
myra
Smile

Ixchel

Corey · Joined: 05 Jul 2003 Posts: 112 Location: Canada

It does sound like Latin America would be the best option. Nannies for kids are dirt cheap.

The experience could be wonderful for both of you. However, please consider the education of the child. Public school education here is substandard. Upon returning to Canada your son/daughter will be at a disadvantage. For summer vacation - no problem.

Good luck

Ixchel · Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2003 9:36 pm Post subject:

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

Hi Myra,
I don't know if you are married or single, but it makes a big difference for your daughter. It would be difficult to work in a foreign country and be the only caregiver to your daughter. I live in Japan and my wife looks after our 20 month old daughter full-time. I can't imagine doing it on my own. You will need to put your daughter in public school and then an after-school program. Japan does love children and you will be welcomed warmly here. I find people friendly towards us because we have a child, whereas in Canada kids are a burden.

Corey · Joined: 05 Jul 2003 Posts: 112 Location: Canada

nomadder · Posted: Mon Aug 18, 2003 7:35 pm Post subject:

The international school idea does sound good as I'm not sure how nonAsian kids are treated in regular schools. It could be difficult at least at some stage. You shouldn't wait too long as I wonder how foreign kids catch up learning all the kanji(Chinese characters) not to mention learning the other writing systems they use. Keep in mind also that the school year begins there in April.
Good luck.