Relaxed Parenting Abroad: Why Expats in Thailand Report Less Stress and More Support
Expat mothers often juggle culture, logistics, and expectations when raising children abroad. In Thailand, many describe a surprising relief: less pressure to be the “perfect mom” and more space for a relaxed family rhythm. Reporting and personal stories from Koh Samui highlight a kinder pace that can benefit both child development and maternal well-being.
A recent Business Insider essay by a Swiss mother living on Koh Samui offers a window into how Thai attitudes toward motherhood shape daily life. The author notes greater flexibility and less judgment than in many Western contexts, where punctuality, extensive extracurriculars, and visible family achievements can feel mandatory. She points to tolerance for a late kindergarten drop-off as a symbol of broader, local patience.