Belonging: A Place for You
It can take some time to feel at home in a new place. Children (and adults) will need to be patient and persistent.
Resettling in a new country is never easy, and the process will be filled with different transitions. It may last a long time. You and your family may live in a state of uncertainty for a long time, maybe calling a hotel room “home” for a while or moving from place to place often. When you can’t see where the road ahead leads, it can help to focus on what you can control, such as making sure that each member of your family feels safe, valued, and capable.
It can take some time to feel at home in a new place. Children (and adults) will need to be patient and persistent. It helps to remind ourselves—again and again—that we matter, that we are important and that we are not alone.
This song is filled with phrases that children can sing to themselves once they’ve heard it a few times. Here are some other things to consider telling children often:
- You are safe.
- You are strong.
- There is a place for you here.
- You belong.
- You’re important.
- You can make new friends.
- You are an important part of your new community.
- You are not alone. You have people to help you.
- I’m listening. It is brave to ask for help.
- All of your feelings are okay. I can help you talk about them (or express them in other ways) so they don’t feel so big.
- The sad or scary things that happened before are not your fault.
- I believe that things can get better.
- I know you have gone through lots of changes. Change is a part of life. Changes can be good. Changes can make us stronger and help us grow.
- You can ask me questions; I will answer them as well as I can.
- I can help you learn ways to help yourself feel a little better.
- We are in this together. We can learn together.
Sesame Workshop’s Belonging resources offer ideas to boost your family’s sense of togetherness, curiosity, and confidence
Remember: As you explore the resources below, remember that your safety, security, and comfort are your priorities. It’s okay to focus on just making sure you and your children feel safe and calm. In those moments, a deep breath or a quiet moment may be all you need (or, sometimes, all you can do). If you still feel stressed, it’s okay to take your time and come back when you’re ready.
