Hold on or let go?
Taking a gap year is an important decision that many young people consider. However, the holding on versus letting go dilemma can cause tension between parents and young people. It is essential that both parties communicate openly, show understanding and work together in making this decision. With the right planning, remote support and trust, parents can let their children go with peace of mind and young people can make the most of this valuable experience.
Of course, we cannot take away your concerns in this area. That is not necessary, because these are very normal and healthy emotions. What we do do is welcome your child in a safe environment and together with a group of young people we will offer them a wonderful and educational time.
“If you love someone set them free,” Sting
True words, but no less easy if you experience it yourself. When I no longer knew how to get off the couch after two “failed” studies, my mother shoved a ticket to Israel under my nose. “Go work for a while and think about your future,” she said.
I realize more and more how much those words have helped me. When I returned from my gap year trip, I immediately started studying and successfully completed it after four years.
Is a gap year good for my child?
Of course! Several studies show that a period abroad is very good for the personal development of young people. A trip during the gap year leads to fewer dropouts and better study results. Only if your child is already very confident and does not need any help with his or her study choice and is eager to start his or her studies, the answer is no. But in that case you probably wouldn’t have ended up on this site.
What does it cost?
Although approx. 2795 euros (in the case of Bonaire) may seem like a lot of money at first glance, but it is actually not that bad when you realize that your child is worth approx. 65 euros per day at a tropical resort, that Dutch guidance is available 24/7, that all kinds of activities are organized and that a professional coaching process is also completed. For this amount you can only store your tent at an average campsite in Italy.
Can we come by too?
Of course you are very welcome to come and visit your child. You immediately have a very good excuse to go on a nice trip yourself. Many parents have gone before you. We do recommend that you plan your trip at the end of your child’s Break. This way your child can follow the entire program and does not have to choose between you and her or his Gap Year Break.
We would also appreciate being notified if you would like to visit. Our first responsibility is the well-being of your child and that is why we always discuss with the Breakers how they feel about it when you visit. We hope for your understanding of this vision.
“Before my daughter went on a trip, she was very nervous and lay on the couch with her iPhone all day long. Now I see a radiant young woman with a lot of energy. She has found a job and she will go to college next year.” proud mother of a Breakster.
