You’re about to embark on your TEFL adventure (cue huge grin) but a few creeping doubts still remain. PANIC NOT. Here are a few handy tips to ensure that your sanity is kept firmly in check.
Home Comforts
Let’s not beat around the bush, home sickness is inevitable. Faced with a gaggle of children, in a country you don’t know and a language you don’t speak, it is perfectly normal to instantly miss the UK and all the trimmings (and that’s not just Mum’s Sunday roast). Remember, keeping an open mind is really important, take on new opportunities and immerse yourself in a new culture! The initial culture shock is merely a transition period before the real adventure begins. Having said that... a few home comforts throughout your journey never hurt anyone, be it your beloved somewhat torn and tattered teddy bear, to sourcing out a bar of Cadbury's.
The Power Of The Internet!
Just when they thought they’d got rid of you...
The internet really is incredible; so keeping in contact with friends and family back home has never been easier. Make sure to send regular updates and set up Skype dates for all those eager to share your journey too! A catch-up with a loved one back home is sure to brighten your day.
PLUS, there’s a whole wealth of other TEFL’ers all over the world in the same boat, willing and ready to share their advice on our Chalkboard. So don’t be scared to touch base and keep involved with all things TEFL.
Trusty TEFL Tricks
Struggling with a difficult class is every teacher’s nightmare but it is not the end of the world! A great way to keep things fresh is to keep updated on exciting lesson plans and ice-breakers.
Here is a list of 20 free lesson plans to keep bored expressions at bay;
http://www.onlinetefl.com/activities-book/
Another great read is i-to-i Academic Director, James Jenkin's blog, in particular, his rendition on how to keep kids engaged;
http://www.onlinetefl.com/tefl-chalkboard/jamesjenkin/posts/9619-secrets-of-an-experienced-tefler
Be a Social Butterfly
One of the great things about teaching English abroad are the endless opportunities that are made available to you, BUT, if in doubt; think about why you chose to embark on your adventure in the first place. Go explore, do something new, chat to someone outside your friendship group, try new food etc etc!
Are you currently teaching abroad? Do you agree/disagree? What kind of home comforts do you keep with you?
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Thanks for your comments! I'm the same, I need music too! I am familiar with the concept of sun but I can't say we have seen much of it in the UK! That's British summer for you! Best of luck to the both of you!
Helen
One of the best things about other countries is that they have this big yellow thing in the sky that gives out warmth and makes you feel happy! You can make your friends jealous with photos of you on the beach on Christmas day.
I agree that taking some music with you is a very good idea - I lost my MP3 player just before I left Bristol and it took me ages to get a collection together again. Also, marmite! And tea bags! Everything else doesnt matter cos they'll have great food almost wherever you go, more suitable clothes for the climate, who needs telly anyway? You'll make friends easily enough in most places and if you don't like it where you are after 3 months (give yourself time!) you can always move on.
Hello Helen,
Having just returned from a bit or a working holiday in Germany, I found that my music kept me sane. Just laying back and relaxing to a familiar sound when things seemed to be getting out of hand. I don't think I would leave home without my ipod as it is light, small and very important to me.
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