The Benefits of studying US History

“Fourscore and seven years ago” is the beginning of an iconic, albeit short, speech made by Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Do you know the name of that speech? Does your child?

Living outside the United States offers a child a myriad of cultural and learning benefits, but one thing they may miss out on is learning about the history of the United States.

​“But why does my child need to learn about US History?” you may ask. “We are on assignment for the next two-to-three years.” Consider the future benefits your child will receive by having a strong foundation in US History studies.


Future Education

Your child will not likely be living overseas for the rest of his or her life. Don’t you want him or her to be as prepared as possible to join his or her age-mates in school? While your teaching overseas includes basics like math and science, foregoing your child’s education in US History could lead them to feeling behind when they return to the States. You can sign up for a free grade-by-grade checklist on our website to see if there are any gaps in your child’s education that need to be filled.


Future Career Options

Assume, for a moment, that your child wants to follow in your footsteps and have a career in the government or foreign service. Many higher-level government jobs, including ambassadorships, require a good knowledge of US History. According to an article written by Jean Stratton for Princeton's weekly community newsletter, Former Ambassador William Stoltzfus Jr. didn’t pass his Foreign Service test until his second attempt (source). Ambassador Stolzfus reported that, "I was turned down because they felt I didn't know enough about the U.S.!" He recounted "So I studied some American history, and the second time around, I was accepted."


Future Learning

Not all children learn the same way. Some children might be auditory learners, some may be tactile learners, and some may be visual learners. Giving your child the opportunity to learn the best way for them gives them confidence and encourages a deep love of learning. The courses offered by US History Abroad come not only with lectures that will speak to auditory learners, but also with videos, songs, and interactive games. Allowing children the opportunity to learn on their own terms will set them up for success in their lives.


Added bonus: course reimbursement

Did you know that State Department families can be eligible for an up-to-100% reimbursement for any US History Abroad course? Once you complete your child’s registration, you will receive confirmation and a receipt. Submit that receipt to your post’s Financial Management Office and you will receive reimbursement in two-to-three weeks’ time. (You can learn more about education allowances here.)

Don’t let a concern about cost hold you back from giving your child the tools he or she needs to succeed in the future.

The courses offered by US History Abroad will not only teach your children the US History they need to know based on the Standards of Learning given by the United States, but will give your children tools that they need for a brighter future.

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