Advice on Making the Move

May 19, 2008 - 12:00 PM by Stephanie

Blogger Sharona moved with her family from the UK to Israel almost 2 years ago.

She admits that it hasn’t always been smooth. For those contemplating “the big move”, Sharona advises: Do your homework before heading ‘cross the pond.

Most olim, when you talk to them, made aliyah for their children, and ultimately it is the experience of the children that ends up dictating many of the decisions you make. You can plan your aliyah all you like, go on a pilot trip, speak to others… ultimately though you will be shaped by your own experiences and you would be extremely lucky to get it right first time.

My advice? Do your homework,

* Talk to other parents, in particular find out the schools that the happy, well behaved, motivated kids go to.

* Make visits during school hours so you can see how the kids behave in lessons and also during break.

* Once your kids start school, ensure you have a good idea of how they are doing academically and socially.

* Talk to the school, sort out any problems as early as possible and make sure you are able to benefit from all help available. If help is available, is it suitable in the current form? If it is not available, can it be made available?

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