As an expat family, one of the most enriching parts of living abroad is the opportunity to experience different cultures and perspectives. But when your child returns to the U.S., you want them to feel confident and ready to tackle new challenges. One area that can often be overlooked while living overseas is U.S. History—and it’s a gap you don’t want your child to face. Imagine this: ✔️ Your child is at a sports game, proudly singing the National Anthem with everyone else. ✔️ They confidently join discussions about pivotal moments in U.S. History like the Emancipation Proclamation or the Civil War. ✔️ They ace their standardized tests because they already understand key historical events and concepts. This is exactly what U.S. History Worldwide can provide. Our courses are specifically designed to cover all the essential topics in U.S. History, giving your child the knowledge and skills they need for a successful return to the U.S. With U.S. History Worldwide, your child can thrive academically and socially when they return to the States! Why U.S. History Worldwide? Our program isn’t just about memorizing dates and names—it’s about making history come alive and making sure your child feels confident in their understanding of U.S. History when they return home. Our courses are:
Winter Enrollment is Open--Secure Your Spot Today! Enrollment for our Winter session is officially open, and we’d love for your child to join us! When you register now, you not only give your child a strong foundation in U.S. History, but you also unlock a fun, community-driven experience that sets our program apart. Introducing the Student Box Swap Experience 📦📫
As if the courses themselves weren’t exciting enough, our Winter Enrollment also includes our wildly popular Student Box Swap! This global adventure is one of the highlights of our program. Last year, we had 22 countries represented—from Korea to Australia and Israel to Ethiopia—and this year is expected to be even bigger! Here's how it works:
Ready to sign up for U.S. History Worldwide and the Student Box Swap? We’re thrilled to have you join us. Click below to secure your child’s spot today! We can’t wait for your child to join us and set themselves up for success in the U.S.
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As we move into 2025, the world continues to change at an ever-accelerating pace. The future remains uncertain, and the challenges our children will face are evolving in ways we can’t yet fully predict. However, as members of the Foreign Service, our kids are already equipped with a unique set of experiences and advantages. To give them an even greater head start, we must focus on nurturing the skills that will empower them to thrive in this fast-paced, interconnected world.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top skills that Foreign Service (FS) kids need to master in 2025. These abilities not only prepare them for the future but also help them embrace the challenges of today. Plus, be sure to check out the Toolbox for Foreign Service Families Facebook group for more insights and resources. And don't forget to apply for our 2025 Scholarship with U.S. History Worldwide! 1. Adaptability: Thriving in an Unpredictable World The ability to adapt is more crucial than ever as we navigate an era of rapid change. Whether it's shifting global dynamics, technological advancements, or changing educational systems, kids need to be comfortable with uncertainty. Research shows that children who develop strong adaptability skills are more confident, resilient, and happier overall. How can we foster this skill? Introduce new routines and activities regularly to create a flexible environment. Encourage curiosity, expose your child to diverse experiences, and model adaptability yourself. By making change a constant but manageable part of daily life, you help them build the resilience to thrive in any situation. 2. Problem-Solving: The Key to Creativity and Leadership Problem-solving is an essential skill that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. In a world where new challenges constantly emerge, the ability to think outside the box and find innovative solutions is invaluable. To nurture this skill in your child, encourage activities that require critical thinking—whether it's solving puzzles, engaging in STEM projects, or navigating social challenges. Give them the space to make mistakes and learn from them, and emphasize the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulty. A well-developed problem-solving mindset builds confidence and prepares them for leadership roles in the future. 3. Effective Communication: Beyond Digital Conversations While today's kids are digital natives, mastering effective communication is about more than just texting or social media. Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills are crucial for navigating the increasingly globalized and diverse world around them. Ensure that your child is engaged in face-to-face interactions and can express themselves clearly, whether it's in a classroom setting, a social situation, or a family conversation. Model respectful communication, listening, and empathy in your own interactions. This helps your child develop the ability to navigate diverse communication scenarios—skills that will serve them well in both personal and professional contexts. 4. Collaboration: Working Together in a Globalized World The interconnectedness of the world in 2025 means that collaboration across borders is a critical skill. Whether it's working with peers from different countries, tackling group projects, or participating in cross-cultural exchange, being able to collaborate effectively is vital for success. Encourage collaboration by involving your child in family or community projects, group activities, and team sports. These experiences teach valuable lessons about cooperation, compromise, and leadership. By helping your child develop these skills, you're preparing them to thrive in a world where teamwork is essential to solving complex global problems. 5. Accountability: Owning Their Success and Growth Accountability is more than just responsibility; it's about teaching your child to take ownership of their actions and decisions. In 2025, with the rise of independent learning platforms and self-driven education, it’s crucial that kids learn how to motivate themselves and stay disciplined. Instill the value of personal responsibility by helping your child set goals, track progress, and reflect on their efforts. Celebrate successes, but also highlight the importance of learning from setbacks. By fostering intrinsic motivation and emphasizing the connection between effort and outcomes, you help your child build a strong work ethic and a sense of self-worth. Preparing FS Kids for a Bright FutureAs members of the Foreign Service, our kids are uniquely positioned to excel in a globalized world. By focusing on adaptability, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and accountability, we can equip them with the skills they need to navigate the challenges of 2025 and beyond. Let's continue to support and empower them on this journey, both at home and in their academic environments. Join the Toolbox for Foreign Service Families Facebook group for ongoing resources and discussions. And don't miss the chance to apply for the 2025 Scholarship with U.S. History Worldwide! Together, we can prepare the next generation of leaders to thrive in an ever-changing world. ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN! This year we will be giving away a scholarship for our US History Worldwide program! 2nd place and 3rd place prizes will also be given. Enter today! Thank you!You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Election season is upon us, and the buzz of political discussions is everywhere—at dinner tables, in the car, and even in casual conversations with friends. As a parent, it’s exciting to see my kids getting curious about the world around them, asking questions about how elections work, and even sharing their own thoughts on what they hear in the media.
At US History Worldwide, we understand that shaping young minds today can help guide them toward becoming informed and engaged citizens in the future. That's why we've put together a FREE Election Guide designed to teach students, from Kindergarten through 8th grade, the significance of voting and the role they can play in our democracy—starting with understanding the basics. Why Teaching Voting Matters Early It's never too early to start educating children about voting and democracy. When young people learn about the importance of voting early on, they not only become more informed as they grow, but they also develop a deeper sense of civic responsibility. Here’s why it’s so important:
How Our Election Guide Helps At US History Worldwide, we’ve created an Election Guide for both K-3rd graders and 4th-8th graders to make learning about elections fun, engaging, and interactive. Here’s how it works:
While our guides provide excellent resources for educators, the conversations and activities can easily extend to the home. The family dinner table is a perfect place to start discussions about elections, democracy, and the role of voting. Whether you’re talking about the upcoming election or a historical event, these moments allow children to feel involved and empowered in the process. The conversations that start today can turn into a lifelong interest in civic engagement. When kids understand the importance of voting and begin practicing these conversations at home, they’re more likely to grow up to be voters who take their civic duties seriously. Let’s Learn and Grow Together As we approach this year’s election, let’s remember that the future of our democracy is in the hands of the next generation. By teaching our kids the importance of voting, we’re giving them the tools to help shape the world they live in. We’re excited to offer our FREE Election Guide as a resource to help get the conversation started. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, this guide provides a great way to empower young voices and raise future voters. Together, we can nurture an informed, engaged generation ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Ready to get started? Download your free Election Guide today and start exploring the exciting world of elections with your child! 🎉
Growing up as a foreign service kid can be truly incredible! But I am sure I don’t have to tell you, it can also come with it’s own unique challenges. Once your child experiences life in other cultures and far-flung parts of the globe, it can be difficult to relate to their peers back at home. It can also be stressful picking up and moving every couple years.
With the right support, our Third Culture Kids can grow into resilient, smart, adventurous, empathetic, observant, adventurous individuals. In honor of World Mental Health day (which is observed on October 10th each year), here are five resources to help you navigate the emotional well being and mental health challenges of raising a foreign service kid. 1. Therapy Thankfully, it’s now easier than ever to find a therapist. EFM facilitated The Big Purple Blobbers has a number of resources that have been recommended to me by other FS families. Good Therapy has compiled a directory of therapists all over the world (you can search by country). Of course, BetterHelp and Talkspace can connect you with an online therapist so your teen can get virtual (phone, or text) counseling whenever you need it. 2. Tech Apps There are dozens of apps that help kids explore mental health in an easy, accessible way. MindShift is actually designed with teens and young adults in mind. Headspace aims to keep kids “calm and focused” through short meditation exercises. Breathe, Think, and Do with Sesame is a free app that helps younger kids learn to deal with frustrating situations. Gratitude offers a super simple way for kids to journal their thoughts, plus it includes gratitude prompts, inspirational quotes, and affirmations too. 3. Parenting Books Sometimes, just knowing how to support your child can help them get through a tough time. A couple of books to consider: Protecting the Gift shares a ton of skills to teach your kids. Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen is a guide to the essential convos you should have with your kids to prepare them for the challenges they may face as they hit teen years. 4. Zone-out Activities I’ve found that when things get a little hectic in my house, it helps to take a minute to stop and reflect. Quiet time—whether that means sitting in those not-so-fun feelings or zoning out for a bit—can be helpful. I have an activity book, ‘Life as a Foreign Service Kid,’ designed to help kids reflect on everywhere they’ve been and dream of everywhere they’d like to go next. If your kids are having big feelings about moving, feeling out of place, or being away from loved ones, this might be a good resource to help them remember the good parts of FS too and change their perspective. Other zone-out activities that work great for kids are chapter books, coloring books, slime, squishies, and fidget toys. 5. Foreign Service Youth Foundation Some of you may already know about the Foreign Service Youth Foundation, but here’s a reminder that it can be a great resource for your kids and your family. FSYF is a nonprofit organization founded exclusively to support Foreign Service Kids. It provides countless articles, workshops, webinars, and events to help Foreign Service Kids transition between posts and adapt to the new environments and adventures they encounter all over the world. As the end of summer approaches and the school bells prepare to chime once more here in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire, I find myself reflecting on how quickly summer has flown. ☀️ It seems like just yesterday we were packing our bags for our summer adventures Stateside. Now, with jet lag slowly fading, it's time to focus on the exciting transition ahead: back to school! 📓📚 To make this shift from vacation mode to school mode smoother and more memorable for my two girls, we've embarked on our annual "Back to School Jumpstart Challenge." This isn't just about ticking off items on a checklist; it's about infusing these final days of summer with purpose, fun, and family bonding. 🤗 Reflecting on Summer Memories Our first activity? A delightful session of drawing and doodling to capture our favorite summer moments. From beach adventures to family outings, putting markers to paper not only brings out our creative sides but also allows us to reminisce and appreciate all the amazing experiences we've had together over the summer. Here's a glimpse of what we created last year, a colorful tapestry of our summer experiences 🖍️ Join Us in the Challenge!
Whether you're in Abidjan, or another corner of the globe, I invite you to join us in our "Back to School Jumpstart Challenge." Embrace these last precious moments of summer with purpose and fun, creating memories that will last well beyond the school year using my list of ideas for you and your kiddo(s)! I'm going to do something each day until school starts! Some from the list, some not from the list. I would love to hear any ideas you have! Make sure to share them in the Toolbox Facebook Community. Summer is here and there are a few special activities that always seem to bring me back to the U.S. (at least in spirit) no matter where I am in the world—a few little slices of Americana, if you will. I’m sure you have your own summer must-dos, but here are a few of my favorites that I know your kids will love too! Hopefully they make you feel right back at home. Sign Up for a Summer Reading Program As a FS mom myself, I’m always looking for ways to keep our kids connected to U.S. culture and a summer reading program is the perfect way to give our kids an American experience—while they even learn a little more about American history. I’m kicking off my own Summer Reading Program this month, and if your kid completes it, they can win a free book! Make Some Patriotic Crafts Get ready for Independence Day with a few patriotic crafts! From paper-plate star wreaths to red, white, and blue slime, a quick search will lead you to hundreds of ideas that’ll keep your kids entertained over the summer! Here's a few ideas to get you started. Check Out an Outdoor Concert Most cities in the U.S. host outdoor summer concert series, and if your post has something similar, you should definitely check it out! If your new town doesn’t have anything, find a nearby park or outdoor space, bring a speaker, and rock out on your own. Create Your Own Salt Water Taffy Depending on what part of the U.S. you’re from, you may equate summer to a trip to the boardwalk and a pile of salt water taffy! It’s actually not that difficult to make! Check out this recipe. Whip Up Some All-American Eats
What’s your fave summer dish? Apple pie? A juicy cheeseburger? A big bowl of strawberries? Plan a potluck for your friends at post and have everyone bring their favorite summer dish from back home. (There are a ton of crowd-pleasing recipes available online!)
Our 2024 Summer Reading Program is now open, and we are thrilled to announce that our curated reading lists have been updated! You don't want to miss it!
Research shows that students can lose up to two months of valuable reading skills during the summer break without educational engagement. Our summer reading program is the perfect solution to combat this loss while fostering academic growth and maintaining progress. But it doesn't stop there! Dive into the world of books and discover how reading promotes emotional well-being, offering a refreshing escape from stress, anxiety, and boredom. Don't miss out on this enriching opportunity to ignite a love for reading and empower your child for success!
Here's what to expect:
Upon registration, participants will receive curated book lists to satisfy EVERY interest (even if your kid is not interested in reading).Thank you!An email with information about the Summer Reading Program has been sent to your inbox.
WHAT CURATED BOOK LISTS ARE INCLUDED?
Below are the lists included divided by K-2nd grades, 3rd-5th grades, and 6th-8th grades)
WHAT IS THE AGE RANGE FOR THE SUMMER READING PROGRAM? The US History Worldwide Summer Reading Program is for K-8th graders! You can see in the image below we have curated reading lists for all different grade levels!
Building an FS community for kids
One of the most challenging parts of moving every couple years to a brand new country is helping our kids feel a sense of community. Our U.S. History Worldwide community is so special in that it brings FS kids together from all over the world! Kids worked hard to put together a special box for someone else and receiving a box in return connects them to another kid who’s living a similar (but just as unique) life.
Keeping FS life exciting!
We’re always looking for ways to keep our FS kids engaged in our community, and keep them excited to learn. U.S. History Worldwide is much more than teaching kids about American history, it’s also about helping them build confidence, compassion, community, and connection. Fun activities like the Box Swap are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the creative ways we keep FS life exciting for our kids! Your family can be a part of our wonderful community too! We strive to help your kids better connect not just to their unique life abroad, but also to their country back at home! If you haven’t yet, join our Toolbox for Foreign Service Families Facebook group and be a part of our next Box Swap—and so many other fun things created just for our FS community! Join our next Box Swap by enrolling in our next US History Worldwide Cohort!
I get so excited hearing about expat kids really getting into learning their U.S. history. It was one of my favorite subjects growing up, and I think there are so many more resources available today to help kids learn in a fun way. Of course, one prominent subject in U.S. history is geography. We touch on it in Course B and in our Draw the USA mini course, which is available to students in K-2nd grade, but if students aren’t regularly practicing their geography skills they can literally get lost during other U.S. history lessons. With 50 states, it’s easy to forget where each one is located, let alone facts about the state or each state’s capital. Think about it. Could you point out New Hampshire on a map? Because U.S. geography is so important, I wanted to round up a bunch of apps, activities, and toys that would make it fun for your student to learn. Here are 10 (almost all of which you can find on Amazon) that’ll make learning geography less of a lesson, and more of a game. ![]() 1. GeoBingo USA GeoBingo USA is a family-friendly game that combines U.S. geography with a little friendly competition. To play, you simply flip a card from the deck and see if you have a spot that matches on your board—just like regular bingo. The first player to fill up five squares in a row is the winner! GeoBingo cards include the land area, population, and nickname for each state, so your family will get a dose of geography facts with each flip.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any tools you’ve found helpful for teaching geography!
It only takes a few years in the Foreign Service to realize that each move, each time you leave a post, marks a significant part of your life. So it’s only right that you commemorate and celebrate your time there.
Usually, once we get the information for a new assignment, that’s what we start focusing on, because it is important to make sure our kids and families are able to quickly adjust to somewhere completely new. But it’s also important to spend some time remembering the people you’ve met, friends you’ve made, food you’ve eaten, and home that’s sheltered you for however many months (or years) you’ve been living there. Here are five creative ideas I’ve seen FS families do to say ‘good-bye’ to their friends, home, and post before leaving: 1. Memorialize your home. The more you travel, the more you recognize how special your physical home is; after all, not only did it provide you shelter in an unfamiliar place, but it was also the backdrop for many great memories. And let’s face it, all the homes we’ve lived in can become a blur after a while, so make an effort to remember each one before you leave. Take photographs, get a painting or sketch done of it, you can even turn your key into an ornament. A keepsake like these will help moving on to somewhere new a little easier, since you’ll be able to take a bit of the old with you. 2. Give your kids a way to reflect and an opportunity to look forward. The "Life as a Foreign Service Kid" activity book is a fun way to preserve your child's unique experiences and memories. It’s full of colorful pages for your child to fill in with memories (about the places they’ve lived, the souvenirs they’ve collected, etc.) and hopes for the future (like writing a letter to their future selves). You can get it here, free for a limited time: https://www.ushistoryworldwide.com/activitybookforfskids 3. Get everyone’s contact info. This one’s pretty obvious, but make sure you check in with your kids too. It’s better to be thorough here than wish you were still in contact with so-and-so years from now. Did they get all their friends’ emails, messenger app information, or phone numbers? You can get your kids an old-school phone book to keep their friends’ contact info or even help them create a ‘yearbook’ (on Shutterstock, or another photo program; or with polaroids photos, tape and a notebook), so their friends can write their contact info as well as a note saying good-bye. 4. Start a group chat or set up a kid-safe social app for your kids and their friends. If your child doesn’t have a phone yet, create a special group chat in your phone along with the parents of their friends so everyone can stay in communication. Facebook has a kid-safe messenger app you can set up for them as well. 5. Throw a ‘House Cooling’ party! You’ve heard of a housewarming party, but what about a house cooling party? You throw it right before you move as a way to say goodbye to your old home and enjoy a final meal together with the people you’ve met while at post. Remember to invite neighbors, your CLO, and other local friends, and encourage everyone to share their favorite memories they’ve made in the house. After this, you could make a toast to your old house and wish its new owners all the happiness you’ve enjoyed there. It may be rough to say goodbye, but remember, your next post will hold just as many amazing experiences and cherished memories! Want more tips and tricks for making your life in the Foreign Service a bit easier? For an ongoing list of ideas like these, delivered straight to your inbox each week, subscribe to the 3-Things newsletter: https://www.ushistoryworldwide.com/3things Remember the anticipation and thrill of spring break when you were a child? That week full of boundless possibilities, where excitement bubbled up uncontrollably? Fast forward to adulthood, and as a parent, that same break from school can sometimes feel like a daunting challenge, requiring immense amounts of energy, patience, and logistical planning. But fear not, because with a bit of creativity and planning, you can turn this spring break into a memorable and enjoyable time for both you and your kids—without relying solely on screens for entertainment.
Here are ten screen-free suggestions to make the most of your spring break:
Hey there, FS Parents! Can you believe it's time to start prepping for summer 2024? Time sure does fly!! If you feel like it is too early to plan for summer, hear me out.... Last summer I had a conversation with parent that had me feeling a tad behind on my summer planning game. By February they had already rented cars and set up summer appointments. Talk about motivation!! That got me going. I got to work on making my summer plans and I was glad I did because I got my choice of doctors appointment times and my pick of camps and places to stay! This summer I have a tested, proven summer prep checklist ready for you, with a few lessons learned. (Stay tuned to the end for a free summer prep checklist template🥳) ✅Lock in the big picture timeline Start big picture, run it by friends and family to make sure you aren't missing anything, but be ready to shift a bit based on camp availability changing schedules, etc. I do this in a paper, monthly calendar for a birds eye view. ✅Book all necessary doctor/dentist appointments I was able to book most appointments months out, but a couple said their schedules weren't open yet and to check back in May. I was a-okay being ahead of the game! We scheduled all of our annual doctor and dentist appointments in the same, single week. It was A LOT but I'd do it again to have it all done with. I didn't get much else done that particular week because some of the appointments needed follow ups too. Leave a little space for follow ups and recovery from all this running around.One other tip here, if you'll be meeting with doctors in the states, this might be a good time to take back medical records to your US providers. The kids pediatrician suggested this and I thought it was an excellent idea to keep all records in one place and to keep them up to speed for any annual check-ups we have to do stateside. ✅Engage the Kids in Summer Camp / Other Activities Planning It's always good to start looking for camps early. Last year my kids were not too enthusiastic about a 3 week sleep-away camp. I convinced them to try it and while they said they didn't love it, I loved that they weren't bored at home. This year we'll be in a different part of the country for most of the summer so it is not an option for them to return to the same sleep away camp. They are opting for traditional day-camps this year with areas of speciality by interest. I started looking for camps two weeks ago and I was surprised to see a lot of the day camps were not open yet; however, the sleep-away camps definitely are. Camp can fill up fast when it opens so do your research and keep an eye on this!Don't forget about other activities you want to get on the books and watch for deals! I am still kicking myself for not getting us Beyonce tickets last year when were happened to be in the same city as her tour for one night. ✅Book Your Accommodations Whether you are staying with friends and family, a cabin in the woods, or something beach front, book early! Watch for cancellation penalties in case things change. ✅Book Travel Do you have any points to use? Turn on flight/price change alerts. Check out your rental car prices. Make sure you have all the right travel documents. ✅Circle Back with Friends & Family Even though I let family know of our plans way in advance, when I circled back with them to confirm our actual plans it was like they were hearing about the trip and the dates for the first time. It's a lot for us and less for them. So don't feel bad if friends and family aren't planning as far ahead as we are! ✅Suitcases Whenever we go back, we pack the small suitcase inside the big suitcase so it's less to travel home with, but it gives us space for any summer shopping we do. We usually leave the big suitcases at someone's house while we are on our summer adventures and grab them again when we are packing up to go home.If you haven't already, if kids have specific friends they want to see when you are home this is a great time to remind your kids to let their friends know they'll be back for a bit. ✅Keep Your Summer Plans Organized & Documented It's helpful for you to make the plans and now what's what, it's extra helpful to empower everyone in the family and share the plan details so they also know who is going where without having to ask you. I documented our summer plans in a simple google doc last year and I'll do it again. Here's the template for you if you want to use it too - click this link and make a copy to be able to edit it. This simple 2 page template turned into 12 pages of schedule and flight details after we filled it all up! I hope it helps you too!Is is it a PCS summer? Of course, if it is a PCS summer for you, you'll have a bit more to do too.What to keep, what to give away, school records, etc. That's a list for another day! What did I miss? For now, what did I miss on this summer checklist? I know I'm forgetting something. Share your summer prep tips in the comments so we can continue to help each other enjoy this incredible adventure. Here's to a summer of making memories!!! And here are a few photos from our last summer's adventures.
Our world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, presenting unique challenges in preparing our children for an uncertain future. As members of the Foreign Service, our kids already possess a remarkable advantage, but imparting additional skills can provide them with an even greater head start. In this blog, we'll explore crucial life skills for kids in 2024, offering insights on how to integrate them into their academic journey. Don't forget to check out the Toolbox for Foreign Service Families Facebook group for more valuable tips and resources. Plus, seize the opportunity to win our 2024 Scholarship with U.S. History Worldwide!
This month, I've included some great crafts and ideas to help you and your family enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday wherever you are. These aren't just useful for one year, but can turn into treasured traditions! 1. Engage LocallyMost Foreign Service families won't be driving to Grandma's for this American holiday, but we will be gathering around the table with some new and old friends to celebrate the time-honored celebration. Here are some ideas to brighten up your holiday and share your meal.
2. Make a Thankful Tree
3. Education, Movies and More!
Did you know? In November, kids in the US are covering topics like the first Thanksgiving, Native Americans, Pilgrims, and so much more. I know it's important to keep a pulse on what their peers who are stateside back in the U.S are learning -- and these are some of those things that are not taught in international schools!!!
Why is it important for them to learn this? These topics are foundational knowledge that will prepare them to ace standardized tests, feel confident around peers, and be equipped for college entrance exams. Not only that, but also it produces a proud patriotic spirit for their home country! 🇺🇸 Click here to learn more about US History Worldwide and join the waitlist today! Growing up as a foreign service kid can be truly incredible! But I am sure I don’t have to tell you, it can also come with it’s own unique challenges. Once your child experiences life in other cultures and far-flung parts of the globe, it can be difficult to relate to their peers back at home. It can also be stressful picking up and moving every couple years. With the right support, our Third Culture Kids can grow into resilient, smart, adventurous, empathetic, observant, adventurous individuals. In honor of World Mental Health day (which is observed on October 10th each year), here are five resources to help you navigate the emotional well being and mental health challenges of raising a foreign service kid. 1. TherapyThankfully, it’s now easier than ever to find a therapist. EFM facilitated The Big Purple Blobbers has a number of resources that have been recommended to me by other FS families. Good Therapy has compiled a directory of therapists all over the world (you can search by country). Of course, BetterHelp and Talkspace can connect you with an online therapist so your teen can get virtual (phone, or text) counseling whenever you need it. 2. Tech AppsThere are dozens of apps that help kids explore mental health in an easy, accessible way. MindShift is actually designed with teens and young adults in mind. Headspace aims to keep kids “calm and focused” through short meditation exercises. Breathe, Think, and Do with Sesame is a free app that helps younger kids learn to deal with frustrating situations. Gratitude offers a super simple way for kids to journal their thoughts, plus it includes gratitude prompts, inspirational quotes, and affirmations too. 3. Parenting BooksSometimes, just knowing how to support your child can help them get through a tough time. A couple of books to consider: Protecting the Gift shares a ton of skills to teach your kids. Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen is a guide to the essential convos you should have with your kids to prepare them for the challenges they may face as they hit teen years. 4. Zone-out ActivitiesI’ve found that when things get a little hectic in my house, it helps to take a minute to stop and reflect. Quiet time—whether that means sitting in those not-so-fun feelings or zoning out for a bit—can be helpful. I have an activity book, ‘Life as a Foreign Service Kid,’ designed to help kids reflect on everywhere they’ve been and dream of everywhere they’d like to go next. If your kids are having big feelings about moving, feeling out of place, or being away from loved ones, this might be a good resource to help them remember the good parts of FS too and change their perspective. Other zone-out activities that work great for kids are chapter books, coloring books, slime, squishies, and fidget toys. 5. Foreign Service Youth FoundationSome of you may already know about the Foreign Service Youth Foundation, but here’s a reminder that it can be a great resource for your kids and your family. FSYF is a nonprofit organization founded exclusively to support Foreign Service Kids. It provides countless articles, workshops, webinars, and events to help Foreign Service Kids transition between posts and adapt to the new environments and adventures they encounter all over the world.
It's hard to believe but my two girls are starting school back up here in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire in less than two weeks. Once again, summer flew! Now that I've recovered from the jet lag since our return from summer break stateside, I'm spending a bit of time each day with the kids doing something to say goodbye to summer and usher in the school year. Our first activity was to draw and doodle memories of our summer. (You can easily see which one is mine because I am the only one who followed the prompt!) No matter! We had fun drawing together and the kids reflected with me and helped me remember all the stops we made. This activity might be a fun one to do with your kids to capture all the memories before we are all in on school and activities and daily life again - Both my 9yo and my 12yo had fun with it.
If you are looking to capture the last few days of summer with fun and purpose, I have a whole list of ideas for you. I'm going to do something each day until school starts! Some from the list, some not from the list.
Building an FS community for kids One of the most challenging parts of moving every couple years to a brand new country is helping our kids feel a sense of community. Our U.S. History Worldwide community is so special in that it brings FS kids together from all over the world! Kids worked hard to put together a special box for someone else and receiving a box in return connects them to another kid who’s living a similar (but just as unique) life.
Keeping FS life exciting!
We’re always looking for ways to keep our FS kids engaged in our community, and keep them excited to learn. U.S. History Worldwide is much more than teaching kids about American history, it’s also about helping them build confidence, compassion, community, and connection. Fun activities like the Box Swap are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the creative ways we keep FS life exciting for our kids! Your family can be a part of our wonderful community too! We strive to help your kids better connect not just to their unique life abroad, but also to their country back at home! If you haven’t yet, join our Toolbox for Foreign Service Families Facebook group and be a part of our next Box Swap—and so many other fun things created just for our FS community!
Calling all Foreign Service families! If you’re on assignment overseas, on Authorized Departure, or waiting for the PCS hold to lift and you want your kids to participate in a uniquely American summer tradition...
I'd like to invite your kiddos to join in the Summer Reading Program created especially for Foreign Service Kids! Sign up NOW for the program where kids read 8 books and get 1 for FREE (while supplies last)! Upon registration, participants will receive curated book lists to satisfy EVERY interest (even if your kid is not interested in reading).Thank you!An email with information about the Summer Reading Program has been sent to your inbox.
WHAT CURATED BOOK LISTS ARE INCLUDED?
Below are the lists included divided by K-2nd grades, 3rd-5th grades, and 6th-8th grades)
WHAT IS THE AGE RANGE FOR THE SUMMER READING PROGRAM? The US History Worldwide Summer Reading Program is for K-8th graders! You can see in the image below we have curated reading lists for all different grade levels! Upon registration, participants will receive curated book lists to satisfy EVERY interest (even if your kid is not interested in reading).Thank you!An email with information about the Summer Reading Program has been sent to your inbox. Summer is just around the corner and there are a few special activities that always seem to bring me back to the U.S. (at least in spirit) no matter where I am in the world—a few little slices of Americana, if you will. I’m sure you have your own summer must-dos, but here are a few of my favorites that I know your kids will love too! Hopefully they make you feel right back at home. Sign Up for a Summer Reading Program As a FS mom myself, I’m always looking for ways to keep our kids connected to U.S. culture and a summer reading program is the perfect way to give our kids an American experience—while they even learn a little more about American history. I’m kicking off my own Summer Reading Program this month, and if your kid completes it, they can win a free book! Get all the info: www.ushistoryworldwide.com/summer-reading Make Some Patriotic Crafts
Get ready for Independence Day with a few patriotic crafts! From paper-plate star wreaths to red, white, and blue slime, a quick search will lead you to hundreds of ideas that’ll keep your kids entertained over the summer! Check Out an Outdoor Concert Most cities in the U.S. host outdoor summer concert series, and if your post has something similar, you should definitely check it out! If your new town doesn’t have anything, find a nearby park or outdoor space, bring a speaker, and rock out on your own. Create Your Own Salt Water Taffy Depending on what part of the U.S. you’re from, you may equate summer to a trip to the boardwalk and a pile of salt water taffy! It’s actually not that difficult to make! Check out this recipe: tasty.co/recipe/saltwater-taffy Whip Up Some All-American Eats What’s your fave summer dish? Apple pie? A juicy cheeseburger? A big bowl of strawberries? Plan a potluck for your friends at post and have everyone bring their favorite summer dish from back home. (There are a ton of crowd-pleasing recipes available online!)
Today, and for the next 10 DAYS, U.S. History Worldwide courses are open for enrollment! ?
WHO are these courses for? Foreign Service kids in kindergarten through 8th grades who live overseas and attend an International school where American history often gets left out of the curriculum. WHAT makes U.S. History Worldwide courses special? These courses are self-paced so you don't need to coordinate with a tutor's schedule. It's NOT a pile of books that sit on your shelf waiting for you to carve out time between attending work/school, extra curriculars, and exploring your host county. U.S. History Worldwide courses are online and are designed for kids to work through all on their own. WHEN do kids work on their lessons? The lessons are self-paced so kids can watch a lesson a week throughout the school year, binge Netflix-style during school breaks, or even save them to work on over the summer. We have 3 easy time-saving learning plans and each of them include a printable lesson tracker! WHY is learning American history important? (Here's what parents have told me...) "It's an easier transition back to the US school system." "I want to be sure our kids have a good understanding of their own country and its rich history." "So that she can be an informed citizen when she becomes an adult and fully participate in our democratic processes." "Because we don't get any US history in our overseas school." "My husband and I proudly serve America overseas. I want to make sure that my son also has that pride for our country." TELL ME, why do you want your child to learn American history? Comment on this blog post to let me know! Enrollment closes on April 15th! Don't miss out on an entire year of American history! Click here to learn more and enroll now: www.ushistoryworldwide.com I was speaking with a parent at post last week and they shared they already had their cars rented and their summer appointments set. 😳 That lit a fire under me to get things going for our summer plans! Last weekend and this week I -
Anything else we need to add to our collective list for summer prep? What do you think? COMMENT BELOW YOUR IDEAS! Summer's coming and it's right on time! ☀️ P.S. These photos are from last summer's summer adventure - Looking back, "camp mom" doesn't seem so bad! I first discovered that my kids were missing out on US History education 5 years ago when my family was posted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Our kids have many unique opportunities in this life we live, but they also face unique challenges. American history education is one those challenges and US History Worldwide provides the simplest, most comprehensive solution. I am thrilled to serve of the US History Worldwide experience for your family. I want to note 3 quick things as we begin the next part of our adventure in American history for your kids: 1) What changes for you and your kids as US History Abroad transitions to US History Worldwide with Amber McCue? Not much! The only real change you'll see is that the company will newly operate under "US History Worldwide." The courses will remain the curriculum you know and love. Enhancements may come down the road as we receive feedback from kids and parents and see opportunities for ongoing improvements 2) What changes for the US History Worldwide team? The small and mighty team that supported US History Abroad yesterday continues on with me today. While the original creator of US History Abroad is not a part of the US History Worldwide experience or US History Worldwide team, we have endless gratitude for what she built and created for our kids. 3) Who is Amber, anyway? I am an EFM, mom to 3 incredible girls, entrepreneur, and positive psychology fan. Growing up, I spent four years living in Saudi Arabia - 2nd grade through 6th. I look back on that experience fondly and my husband and I were also excited to share a life abroad with our kids. Our two youngest daughters, Audrey and Harper, are in school in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire where we live now. Our oldest daughter, Lilly, recently graduated from UCSB and lives in San Diego.
Cha-cha-changes! (And a heads up!) In case we haven't had the pleasure of meeting yet, I am Amber McCue the new EFM, owner of US History Worldwide, formerly called US History Abroad. Yes, it's true! We are currently working through a rebrand from US History Abroad to US History Worldwide.
Please pardon the virtual dust while we do a bit of housekeeping! If there are any questions please reach out. We are in this together in more ways than US History and it's not my intention to cause confusion, rather I want to keep things as smooth sailing as possible for your kids as they navigate US History while living around the world. Transitions and moves can get a little messy sometimes (I know our community knows all about the moves ). We intend to update many things in the coming weeks and there will likely still be things we find as we move through the year. This month, I've included some great crafts and ideas to help you and your family enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday wherever you are. These aren't just useful for one year, but can turn into treasured traditions! 1. Engage Locally Most Foreign Service families won't be driving to Grandma's for this American holiday, but we will be gathering around the table with some new and old friends to celebrate the time-honored celebration. Here are some ideas to brighten up your holiday and share your meal.
2. Make a Thankful Tree
3. Movies and MORE!
Happy Thanksgiving from U.S. History Worldwide!
Look, there are a ton of gift guides out there with lists of hundreds of toys, games, and gadgets kids will love, so I figured, instead of creating another one and adding to your (theoretical) decision paralysis, I’m just going to bring all the good guides to you in one place.
I’ve gone through each of these and I sincerely think they’ll help you find the perfect gift for every kid in your life. But, before you jump into those, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you start going through these lists and making your purchases.
Let’s face it, we all do most of our shopping on Amazon these days (especially if you’re overseas at post)! Amazon has compiled its own list of all the toys kids are wanting this year, so you can get them straight from the source. Buzzfeed Buzzfeed is well-known for two things: its quizzes and its gift guides. They have very niche and very specific round-ups, a few notables are: 49 Gifts To Cover Every Child On Your List From Tots To Teens and If You're Looking For A Gift, Here Are 40 That Are Kid-Approved. They also have gift-guides for different ages and for different budgets. Good Housekeeping They’ve compiled a list of 40+ gifts for kids in a slideshow gallery. From budding scientists to the more artistic kids, and little ones too—this gift guide has you covered. Today Today has multiple gift guides for kids of all ages, all newly updated for 2022. Each guide is broken down by age, so you can be assured that the gift you end up getting will be stimulating and age-appropriate. Goop Gwyneth Paltrow’s gift guide has a few notable picks for the super-cool kids in your life. Finally! A beautiful way for your FS kids
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