Parents often complain that they have difficulty contacting their children overseas. But staying in touch with students studying abroad is easier and more affordable than ever. You have the option of using a telephone, e-mail, instant messaging, text message and even regular postal mail.

Still, because of time and schedule differences, staying in touch can be tough. Parents may find this difficult, especially if your child lives at home with you, or if you are a close family that communicates often. If this raises concerns regarding sending your child abroad, keep in mind the many benefits to be derived from study abroad.

Here are a few tips to staying in touch:

·          Before your child leaves get the address and phone number of the school where he/she will be studying. Also, get the address and phone number to where your child will be staying

·          Purchase a rechargeable international calling card

·          If you don’t already have one, set a free email account. It’s a fast, simple and free way to communicate with your child. Here are some free email providers: YAHOO! Mail, Hotmail or Gmail

·          Encourage your child to buy an international cell phone before leaving or soon after arriving in their host country

·          Be sure your child understands the importance of staying in touch. Consider setting a rule that you and your child will communicate every week (or whatever time increment you think is best)

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