Moving is an eventful time for adults and children alike. While adults are likely focused on moving supplies and calling professional movers, kids are dealing with their own set of stresses in regard to the big move. Some kids adjust to moving quickly, making new friends and settling in to their new home and new neighborhood with minimal problems. However, some kids don’t adjust as quickly. Some children can become overly anxious, socially withdrawn, and even depressed. Moving during the middle of the school year can add additional stress to an already hectic situation, but there are several things you can do to help ease the transition of moving.
Talk to Administrators and Teachers in Advance of Your Move
Whether you are moving across Plano, moving across College Station, or moving across Texas, academics in schools can vary. Speaking with school administrators as far in advance of your move as you can can help to ease your child’s transition. Whether your child is currently struggling academically or excelling, plan ahead and figure out what is best to help your child transition into continuing his or her academics at a different school. Whether your child needs a tutor to help him or her catch up before enrolling into his new school or to catch up with the other kids in the class or whether your child needs to move up a grade, discussing your child’s academic standing can help him adjust with the switching of schools.
Talk to your children.
Every child deals with change differently. Some children are vocal, while some become withdrawn with their feelings. Some children will act out. Although you are dealing with your own stresses with packing, organizing, calling your local moving company, and own transition, keep an open ear to any feelings your child might share. Encourage him to be open about his feelings on the move, and be as understanding as you can be.
Encourage Your Child to Make New Friends
Moving into a new school, especially mid year, can be socially challenging for kids. Encourage your kids to get involved with school activities, extra curriculars, and local clubs and groups. Encourage your child to branch out on their own, given that they are old enough, and you live in a safe neighborhood. Kids can make new neighborhood friends by simply going to the local park to play a game of basketball.
Stay Involved
Speak with your child’s new school frequently to ensure that your child is adjusting. Even if your child seems to be perfectly happy at home, sometimes kids will act out at school or fall behind in their studies. By having an open line of communication with your child’s new teachers and administrators, you can catch problems before they get out of hand.