Moving in Time for the School Year? 4 Things You Can Do for a Smooth Transition

Moving is not an easy feat, but it can become an overwhelming experience when you add kids to the mix.

From uprooting your children from previous schools to making sure that they feel comfortable at the new location, every step must be carefully planned to make a move a true success.

Here are 4 things you can do to make your move seamless and as stressless as possible.

• Gather Transcripts and Recommendation Letters from Previous Teachers 

While obtaining a transcript is something that you will already need in order for your child to transfer schools, consider asking for a recommendation letter from a teacher, counselor, or administrator. These can be included in your child’s file and help them make a good impression in their new environment. It can also bode well for them if private school is a consideration

• Research Schools Surrounding Your New City or Neighborhood

Don’t wait until crunch time to start doing your research. Several months before your move be sure to look up surrounding schools and districts. Get familiar with the teachers, the school ratings (if you haven’t taken that into consideration before the move), and what activities they might have in place that will help your child acclimate that much quicker. Also, after-school programs are one of the easiest ways for your child to make new friends and feel a part of their new surroundings. For a look at school ratings, check here.  

• Take Your Child on a Tour of the New School Before Their First Day

New surroundings can be taxing on anyone, but especially for a child. Help them feel more relaxed and at ease with the move and their new school by scheduling a tour before the first day. They will get a chance to meet their potential teachers, see where they will be every day, and become aware of the available extracurricular programs. Once they get the lay of the land, they’ll not only be better equipped to handle their first day, but they will also feel like they know what’s ahead of them.

• Meet other parents in the neighborhood 

Meeting local parents in the neighborhood might just be what the doctor ordered for that sense of belonging and community. If you find it hard to catch your neighbors, look for local HOA meetings within the neighborhood or go to PTA meetings when possible. Also, if your child is young enough, arranging a playdate is the quickest way to not only make new friends for your child, but also for you.

If you still have questions about your move, we’re here to help.