There are currently over 100 TCKs (Third-Culture-Kids) represented within Reliant International. These kids don't have a job description or receive a paycheck, but they are very much a part of the life and ministry! Historically, these kids have often gone unnoticed or had insufficient access to care and resources while on the field. Thankfully, this area of research and development is growing at a rapid pace! A quick google-search will lead you to a lot of really great resources. What we've listed below are some vetted resources to get you started. But it is certainly not an exhaustive list.
If your family is struggling on the field, you don't have to struggle alone. If you have questions or concerns about any aspect of parenting your TCKs (no matter how big or small), please reach out for help. We can help you access the right care for your family.
Pre-Field Training & Resources
On-Field Resources
- TCK Counseling Network
- One-on-One Coaching and Debriefs
- Open and Go Retreat Curriculum
- Family Debriefs hosted by some of our own Reliant field staff
- Topic-Based Workshops
Book List
- A Fish out of Water by Hannah Flatman - Hannah has given us a sweet and simple story, perfect for guiding conversations with young TCKs about transitioning to new places, making new friends, and remembering that our identity and home is ultimately in our Creator.
- Swirly by Sara Saunders - Lila, born in the Blue Country and having lived in the Yellow Country, then the Red, has swirls of all of those colors in her but wonders if she belongs in any one place until a swirly boy's mother tells of Jesus, who was also swirly and has prepared a home for them all.
- Third Culture Kids, A Gift to Care For by Ulrika Ernvik - It is a well-organized, clear, concise handbook on the broad range of issues TCKs and families experience. Each chapter contains suggested activities related to the chapter topic. Each chapter ends with "What can I do as a TCK, parent, sending agency?" Parents can use the activities and questions from relevant chapters.
- Looming Transitions by Amy Young and its companion book of 22 activities for families. - This book addresses going to a new country and returning to one's passport country, giving practical activities to complete as a family.
- Kids On the Move by Leah Moorefield Evans and Jodi Harris - A resource book full of practical activities directed toward healthy, thriving, third-culture kids.
- Go! My Personal Guide and Diary Before, During and After Moving Abroad by Maria Kofod Techow - A hands-on book that would make a great gift for a older child (of reading/writing age) for them to process their transition overseas.
TCK Training - Churches Supporting Missionary Families
Learn how your church can support missionary families well! To access the recording, click the button below. You may need to create an account, but you should be able to access the recording for free. Feel free to share the link with your sending church or care team.
