Choosing When to Start a Family Abroad: Insights & Advice
When it comes to making one of life’s most significant decisions—having children—many wonder if there is a “right time,” especially when living far from home. This question becomes even more nuanced when navigating the unique challenges of life abroad, such as cultural adaptation, language barriers, and professional stability.
In the latest episode of our podcast, Maternidade Fora do Brasil, we speak with Amanda Santos, a Brazilian expat who made Vienna, Austria, her home. Amanda’s story provides valuable insights into finding the ideal time to start a family abroad. For her, this waiting period wasn’t just about adapting to a new country and overcoming language barriers—it was also about solidifying her professional career and building a stable foundation for her family’s future.
Amanda emphasizes the importance of feeling “at home” in her new life in Austria before embarking on motherhood. This intentional approach allowed her and her partner to create a welcoming and secure environment for their children, where the new culture and language became integral parts of their family identity.
Important Considerations for Expatriate Families:
Cultural Adaptation: Understanding and feeling part of the local culture is crucial for creating a positive family environment abroad.
Language Barrier: Overcoming linguistic challenges facilitates daily communication and prepares parents to better support their children’s education and social development.
Professional and Financial Stability: Having an established career and financial security can alleviate many common concerns of new parents, allowing them to focus more fully on their family’s well-being.
While Amanda’s story emphasizes waiting for the right time as essential to her experience, it is important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each family, depending on their circumstances, values, and dreams, will find their own “right time” to expand, regardless of where in the world they may be.
Amanda reminds us that when considering expanding the family abroad, the most important thing is to ensure that you and your partner feel prepared and supported in your decision. Whether waiting for the perfect moment like Amanda or navigating the complexities of parenthood in a new country under different circumstances, the key is to do what is best for your family, with love, patience, and careful planning.
Discover More Real-Life Stories and Expert Advice
Amanda’s journey highlights that waiting for the “right time” worked for her, but every family is different. Maternity Abroad: Becoming a Mother in a Foreign Land dives deeper into real-life stories like Amanda’s and offers actionable insights for mothers navigating pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting abroad.
In the book, you’ll find:
Practical advice on prenatal care, birthing practices, and postpartum traditions in foreign countries.
Cultural insights to help you feel at home while creating a strong family foundation.
Expert Q&A from healthcare professionals, psychologists, and expat parents to guide your journey.