How to prepare for the new school year after the household move

Moving to another city and changing schools is always stressful for children, no matter their age. Summer is the most convenient period of the year to move house especially if you are moving with school-age children.

Planning a move according to the school calendar is probably the most logical decision. However, moving immediately after the school year ends doesn’t leave your children enough time to get used to the idea of moving and say goodbye to their school friends.

Also, allow your children a couple of weeks at the new destination before the new school year starts so that they can adjust to the new environment and meet new friends.

– In order to ensure a smoother and less stressful transition for your children, visit the new school before the new school year starts and meet some teachers. Help your children picture their new school life and become excited and optimistic about it.

– You can also expect more help from your teenage children during their summer holidays. An extra pair of hands is always welcome when it comes to settling into the new house. The sooner you unpack and settle into your new home, the more time you will have to adjust and prepare for the new school year.

– Maintain open communication with your children so that they can always express their thoughts and concerns. There will be times when your children will be frustrated and sad about the move. You just need to make them realize why this relocation is good for them and point out all positive aspects of the move. Talk with your children even if you seem to have enough of your problems and concerns.

– Let them spend time with children of their age. Involve them in some community activities, extracurricular and sports activities where they can connect with their peers and make new friends even before the school term starts. Help your kids meet children with the same interests and make them miss the old school friends less. Seeing some familiar faces in the classroom on the first school day will make your children less nervous.

– Encourage your children to stay in touch with the old friends no matter how far they are, since they can provide support during difficult moments of home sickness.

– Throw a housewarming party once you settle in and arrange your home. It’s a good opportunity to gather your old and new friends, have some fun and help your children integrate herself/himself into a new social environment.

– Together with your children make a list of school supplies and other items that are required. Shopping with your children can be a really exciting family activity.

– Be patient and supportive, since settling in may take a while. Your child will make new school friends and start feeling at home eventually. You need to reassure them that moving to a new school is a new beginning and positive experience. A new place gives a new chance, a lot of new possibilities, so why not explore them all?

– Accompany your children on the first school day and introduce yourselves properly. Although your teenage children probably won’t need your company on the fist school day, you should help them explore the new neighborhood, map out the safest route to the school, bas station,…

– Children who make friends easily will probably adapt quickly. However, adaptation process might take a bit longer for introverted or shy kids. Allow them enough time to process and accept the change. In case they have trouble adapting after a significant period of time, consider consulting your children’s professor/teacher or school counselor in order to improve your children’s social skills.