GirlGI | Girl Gone International GirlGI Issue 4 | Page 81

foods, and generally adapted quickly to their new surroundings. And in a tribute to a TCK’s adaptability in circumstances even adults might find daunting, 64% of our survey respondents stated that their children found it ‘easy’ or ‘very easy’ to learn a new language; 78% reported it was ‘easy’ or ‘very easy’ for their children to learn a new dialect; and 68% noted it was ‘easy’ or ‘very easy’ for their children to pick up a new accent. TCK children are also adept at making friends in their new homes. When asked about the types of friendships their children have, 86% of the GGIs in our survey stated their children befriended locals and 76% stated that they befriended Above: Ronan Aherin Left: Bonnie Rose Aherin with sons in Allerton Park Monticello, Illinois