revealed that of the 1,400 people surveyed across 67 countries, 54% identified as anywhere workers – and remarkably, 70% of them were parents travelling with children.
THE STRUGGLES OF FAMILIES IN NOMADIC LIFESTYLES But while the lifestyle may seem idyllic, it comes with its own set of complexities. One concerned mother on a digital nomad forum put it simply: “I’m considering traveling around with our little family while we work, but I’m concerned about not providing my son with the stability of one place and the same friends.” Children, in particular, thrive on
familiarity and routine. Constantly shifting time zones, environments, and social circles can take a toll on their emotional wellbeing and academic progress. As Dr. Jody LeVos, Chief Learning Officer at children’s learning platform BEGiN, explains: “Children typically crave a sense of familiarity. Creating that can be a challenge when time zones, physical surroundings, and social contacts are constantly changing.” Beyond the logistical hurdles,
nomadic families often grapple with deeper emotional and relational challenges. Without a fixed home base, building lasting friendships and support networks becomes a recurring uphill climb – not just for parents, but for young people too. Each new location means starting over, and children may miss out on the steady friendships and community ties that many of their peers enjoy. While some children develop
impressive adaptability and confidence, others may struggle with a sense of uprootedness and anxiety. Parents, too, may carry quiet guilt – wondering whether their children are missing out on the best parts of a more traditional upbringing, such as knowing the neighbour’s dog, celebrating birthdays with the same friends, or staying close to extended family. Education adds another layer
of complexity. Homeschooling and distance learning can provide flexibility, but they often place additional burdens on working parents and can leave children without a consistent peer group.
While these options work for some, others are beginning to consider a different solution, one that offers structure and stability amid global movement: boarding school.
BOARDING SCHOOLS AS A GROWING SOLUTION While homeschooling or distance learning can work well for some globally mobile families, they are not without their challenges. As highlighted in Why Many Digital Nomad Families Fail: The True Challenges, many parents experience significant physical and emotional strain when trying to juggle full-time work with home education. Children, too, may suffer from social isolation and a lack of consistency, which are critical for their social and emotional development. Boarding school might not be
the first solution that comes to mind but for many families, it’s a compelling one worth considering. These schools offer the consistency and routine that children need, while also providing high-quality academics, strong pastoral care, and a sense of belonging. Still, many parents hesitate
due to persistent misconceptions about boarding schools. Common concerns include homesickness, lack of parental involvement, or the idea that boarding is a last resort for troubled children. But today’s boarding schools are worlds away from these outdated stereotypes:
• Homesickness is real, but boarding schools are well-equipped with staff and systems to help children adjust and thrive in their new environment.
• Parental involvement is
encouraged, with regular updates, family weekends, and open lines of communication.
• Social isolation is addressed through welcoming student communities, co-curricular activities, and peer support networks.
• Lack of individual attention is mitigated by small class sizes and a strong focus on personalised learning.
• Family relationships can actually be strengthened, as many children grow in independence and confidence, enhancing the quality of time spent together.
PROVIDING CHILDREN WITH STABILITY Far from being relics of the past, modern boarding schools are nurturing, forward-looking environments designed to support the whole child. They offer the stability, structure, and continuity that nomadic lifestyles often lack, giving children a strong sense of routine, belonging, and community. Schools like Rugby School
Japan belong to a new generation of globally-minded, values-based boarding schools that understand the unique needs of internationally mobile families. Drawing on British educational traditions while embracing the diversity of international life, RSJ provides a stable home base amid global transitions. Situated in Japan – one of the world’s safest and most popular destinations – it offers families peace of mind alongside cultural richness. With a focus on inquiry-based learning, wellbeing, and personal growth, RSJ delivers academic rigour and emotional support in equal measure. Like other schools in this evolving
category, RSJ blends heritage and innovation to meet the expectations of modern families. For those navigating complex international paths, these schools offer not only consistency but also a strong foundation for life beyond the classroom.
CONCLUSION In a world where change is constant and mobility is increasingly common, families are seeking more than just academic continuity – they are looking for emotional stability, personal growth, and a true sense of belonging for their children. Boarding schools, far from being outdated institutions, have evolved into dynamic, enriching communities that understand the needs of families on the move. For parents navigating the
complexities of international life, boarding schools can offer not just a consistent education, but a holistic upbringing that prepares children to thrive – wherever life may take them. In many ways, they are becoming
one of the most forward-thinking solutions for globally mobile families, offering both roots and wings.
www.rugbyschooljapan.ed.jp
REFERENCES:
BBC Worklife. (2022, June 15). The rise of digital nomad families.
Howdy. (n.d.). Digital Nomad Statistics: Key facts and trends in 2024.
Nomad Mum. (n.d.). Why many digital nomad families fail: The true challenges.
Reddit. (n.d.). Any digital nomads out there with children?
Startups Magazine. (n.d.). How digital nomads are shaping the way Millennials & Gen Z work.
83
GLOBAL EDUCATION
JAPAN
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104 |
Page 105 |
Page 106 |
Page 107 |
Page 108 |
Page 109 |
Page 110 |
Page 111 |
Page 112 |
Page 113 |
Page 114 |
Page 115 |
Page 116
