Thriving as children
Ernvik’s understanding of child development and issues of belonging, attachment and independence is excellent. She busts the myth that it is easier for children to adjust than adults explaining that imitation and integration are not the same. Grief and joy that TCKs may particularly experience are expertly dealt with. She also provides a framework for planning clearly for the long-term, offering psychological and practical input on the necessary preparation for life in the passport “home” country.
Finally the book comes to focus on MKs (Mission Kids) and how being part of a faith system can give our children different questions than other expat children.
I would highly recommend this book to families at any stage of cross-cultural living as well as other workers and senders who want to know how to better support TCKs and their parents. It would be especially helpful to read in preparation for transition of any kind. In summary, this is a really high quality book full of knowledge, stories and activities to equip each reader, whatever their status, to pursue the thriving of TCKs.
For more book reviews, see our mission resources page.
*A TCK or Third Culture Kid is typically a child who has grown up in culture different from their parents’ home country. This gives them a blended or ‘third’ cultural identity.
