Essential Tips for Parents of Gap Year Students in Israel

Sending your child to Israel for a gap year is a significant and exciting step. To ensure they have a successful and enriching experience, here are some key points to keep in mind.

Encouraging Independence

  • Empower Problem-Solving: Encourage your child to handle challenges on their own. This builds resilience and independence.
  • Avoid Helicopter Parenting: Give your child the space to grow and learn from their experiences.

Budgeting and Finances

  • Overestimate Your Budget: Plan to spend more than you initially think. Unexpected expenses are common.
  • Set a Monthly Allowance: Establish a clear budget to teach financial responsibility. This helps them manage money for food, travel, and other expenses.

Packing Essentials

  • Pack Lightly: Avoid overpacking. Israel has plenty of stores where they can purchase what they need, including the Tamarim Concierge Dorm Store. https://tamarimconcierge.com/product-category/dorm-packs/
  • Medications: Bring essential medications like Benadryl and Neosporin, as they may be prescription-only in Israel.
  • Extra Socks and Underwear: These items are lightweight and handy.

Communication

  • Manage Expectations: Understand that communication from the program may be limited. Set realistic expectations for updates.
  • Scheduled Check-ins: Arrange regular communication times, especially considering time zone differences.
  • Location Sharing: Use apps to keep track of your child’s whereabouts for safety purposes.

Immersing in Israeli Culture

  • Encourage Exploration: Motivate your child to explore Israel’s history, culture, and communities.
  • Use Hebrew: If they have the opportunity, practice Hebrew to better integrate and learn.

Health and Safety

  • Health Insurance: Ensure they have comprehensive health insurance, as the program-provided coverage may be insufficient.
  • Emergency Contacts: Provide them with local emergency contacts and apps for safety alerts. https://www.oref.org.il/eng

Social and Shabbat Etiquette

  • Good Manners: Teach your child to be a considerate guest when staying with host families. Bring gifts and help out.
  • Shabbat Arrangements: Clarify the school’s Shabbat policies and make arrangements in advance if necessary.

Managing Homesickness and Emotional Support

  • Emotional Outlet: Be the safe space where your child can express their emotions. Offer support without immediately solving their problems.
  • Long-Distance Visits: Visits can be costly and aren’t always necessary. Many students thrive without a mid-year visit.

Practical Tips

  • Unlock Phones: Make sure their cell phones are unlocked for use with local SIM cards before they leave for Israel.
  • Avoid Overpacking Toiletries: Israeli toiletries may be more suitable due to water differences.
  • Prepare for Food Supplementation: Program-provided meals might not be sufficient. Plan for additional food expenses.

Essential Tips for Parents of Gap Year Students in Israel

Sending your child to Israel for a gap year is a significant and exciting step. To ensure they have a successful and enriching experience, here are some key points to keep in mind.

Encouraging Independence

  • Empower Problem-Solving: Encourage your child to handle challenges on their own. This builds resilience and independence.
  • Avoid Helicopter Parenting: Give your child the space to grow and learn from their experiences.

Budgeting and Finances

  • Overestimate Your Budget: Plan to spend more than you initially think. Unexpected expenses are common.
  • Set a Monthly Allowance: Establish a clear budget to teach financial responsibility. This helps them manage money for food, travel, and other expenses.

Packing Essentials

  • Pack Lightly: Avoid overpacking. Israel has plenty of stores where they can purchase what they need, including the Tamarim Concierge Dorm Store. https://tamarimconcierge.com/product-category/dorm-packs/
  • Medications: Bring essential medications like Benadryl and Neosporin, as they may be prescription-only in Israel.
  • Extra Socks and Underwear: These items are lightweight and handy.

Communication

  • Manage Expectations: Understand that communication from the program may be limited. Set realistic expectations for updates.
  • Scheduled Check-ins: Arrange regular communication times, especially considering time zone differences.
  • Location Sharing: Use apps to keep track of your child’s whereabouts for safety purposes.

Immersing in Israeli Culture

  • Encourage Exploration: Motivate your child to explore Israel’s history, culture, and communities.
  • Use Hebrew: If they have the opportunity, practice Hebrew to better integrate and learn.

Health and Safety

  • Health Insurance: Ensure they have comprehensive health insurance, as the program-provided coverage may be insufficient.
  • Emergency Contacts: Provide them with local emergency contacts and apps for safety alerts. https://www.oref.org.il/eng

Social and Shabbat Etiquette

  • Good Manners: Teach your child to be a considerate guest when staying with host families. Bring gifts and help out.
  • Shabbat Arrangements: Clarify the school’s Shabbat policies and make arrangements in advance if necessary.

Managing Homesickness and Emotional Support

  • Emotional Outlet: Be the safe space where your child can express their emotions. Offer support without immediately solving their problems.
  • Long-Distance Visits: Visits can be costly and aren’t always necessary. Many students thrive without a mid-year visit.

Practical Tips

  • Unlock Phones: Make sure their cell phones are unlocked for use with local SIM cards before they leave for Israel.
  • Avoid Overpacking Toiletries: Israeli toiletries may be more suitable due to water differences.
  • Prepare for Food Supplementation: Program-provided meals might not be sufficient. Plan for additional food expenses.