Some children cross the border from Shenzhen to Hong Kong every day for school (cross-border students), while others have recently relocated to Hong Kong with their families (newly arrived children). Both face similar adaptation challenges. SchoolABC explains how parents can help them adjust.
Challenges for Cross-Border Students
- Daily border crossings take time, reducing sleep
- Curriculum and teaching language may differ between the two places
- Difficult to participate in extracurricular activities and socializing
- Parents cannot easily attend school events or meet teachers
Challenges for Newly Arrived Children
- May not be familiar with spoken Cantonese
- English level may lag behind Hong Kong peers
- Unfamiliar with Hong Kong's school system and operations
- Need to rebuild social circles from scratch
Language Adaptation — Cantonese and English
Cantonese
If your child is not familiar with Cantonese:
- Use more Cantonese at home
- Let them watch Hong Kong TV programs and cartoons
- Enroll them in community Cantonese classes
English
Hong Kong's English curriculum may be more advanced. Consider:
- Exposing your child to more English reading materials
- Using English cartoons and songs to build interest
- After-school English tutoring if needed
Curriculum Adaptation
The two systems differ. Parents can:
- Check with the class teacher about curriculum progress
- Consider after-school tutoring if needed
- Avoid excessive pressure — adaptation takes time
Social Adaptation
- Encourage extracurricular activities to make new friends
- Arrange participation in community activities in your district
- Get to know other parents to help your child build social circles
EDB Support
The Education Bureau has specific support programs:
- Support for Newly Arrived Children — helps new arrivals adapt to Hong Kong's education system
- Cross-Border Students Support Program — helps with transportation and learning challenges
What Parents Can Do
- Be patient — give your child enough time to adjust
- Communicate frequently with school and teachers
- Watch for emotional changes
- Don't compare your child to other students
- Offer positive encouragement and praise their efforts