In this insightful episode of the Nomadic Diaries' Belonging Project miniseries, Doreen and Megan welcome Andrea Schmidt, a trilingual global teen life coach specializing in supporting third culture kids (TCKs), especially teenage girls. The conversation delves into the complex processes of identity formation and belonging for TCKs, challenges of boarding school experiences, and the importance of supportive frameworks for globally mobile families.
Key Topics Discussed
- Andrea’s Background:
Certified coach & psychologist, works worldwide with TCK teenage girls in English, Spanish, and German, drawing on her own cross-cultural experiences. - Identity vs. Belonging:
- Identity: Self-concept; how one defines oneself in multicultural settings.
- Belonging: The sense of connection to places, families, or cultures - often a challenge for TCKs who may feel “rootless” or “in between.”
- Boarding Schools & Family Dynamics:
Discussion on TCKs who attend boarding schools, the impact on family bonds, and how frequent separation can challenge both belonging and emotional security. - Preparation & Support:
Many corporations offer limited prep for families relocating abroad. Some mission and military sectors offer more. Emotional support during transitions is often lacking. - Coaching Approaches:
Andrea uses the “RAFT” framework (Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewells, Think Destination) to help teens process moves and transitions. - Emotional Literacy & Struggles:
Emphasizes developing an emotional vocabulary, modeling struggle (not just “success”), and the importance of parents taking care of themselves during transitions. - Unique TCK Challenges for Teens:
- Frequent moves and disrupted friendships
- Navigating new languages, social norms, and academic systems
- Managing “cultural homelessness” and assumptions about privilege
- Peer Connection & Trust:
How repeated moves and goodbyes can affect confidence, trust, and willingness to form new connections. Andrea shares tips for both teens and parents. - Coaching in Multiple Languages:
Andrea sees flexibility and comfort switching languages in sessions as empowering for globally mobile teens. - Long-Term Benefits of TCK Experience:
- Enhanced cross-cultural skills, adaptability, and empathy
- Advanced problem-solving and global mindset
- Value for future careers and leadership opportunities
Memorable Quotes
“Belonging is to everywhere and nowhere.” Andrea Schmidt
“It’s important for parents to help their children, even if they’re teenagers, to get out there and make their place a place where they can belong, where they can hang out, where they can feel community.” Andrea Schmidt
“True belonging doesn’t require that we change who we are. Our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.”
— Brene Brown
Resources Mentioned
- RAFT Model for transitions
- Andrea's TED Talk (in Spanish and “hot pink heels!”)
- Andrea’s coaching platforms:
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