Moving with Kids
Having to uproot your family is one of the hardest things you may have to go through as a parent. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry states that, “Studies show children who move frequently are more likely to have problems at school. Moves are even more difficult if accompanied by other significant changes in the child’s life, such as a death, divorce, loss of family income, or a need to change schools.”
The staff at Apartments.com knows that as hard as it may be, moving is often unavoidable and will often lead to a positive change in the family. That’s why we want to offer some helpful advice to help make this process easier on you and your family. Take it one day at a time and soon it will seem like you’ve been living in your new home forever!
When you decide to move…
- The first thing to consider is the age of your child (or children). Preschool or younger children will not understand everything that is going on around them, so it is better to try to maintain a consistent routine and not begin any new changes for a while. For example, toilet training or switching to a new bed should be put off for until a few months after a move.
- School age children will have to start over in a new environment and make new friends. Changing schools can be stressful but you can help make the process easier. Inform your child’s teacher as soon as you know of the move so that she can be aware of your child’s emotions. Arrange a visit with your child to the new school before the first full day of class. Some parents believe it is easier for a child to make the transition half-way through the year so that they may adjust before beginning a new year, while others think starting fresh at the beginning of the year is the best way. From an academic standpoint it is easier for a child to transition at the beginning of the school year. You child will most likely want to know if she will be able to see her friends again; try to arrange for a visit before you even move or set up a way for your child to communicate with friends. Knowing that her friends aren’t gone forever will make your child more able to adjust to the new environment.
- Teenagers have very different responses, depending on their circumstances. You can expect a young teenager who has not yet entered high school to be anxious: you can deter their fear by researching the high school they will be attending and discussing all the activities they’d like to pursue. Teens already in high school may be very angry if they have to leave academic programs, sports or other extracurricular activities to which they are attached. Help your teen contact the school ahead of time to see what can be done to start up the activity at the new school. On the other hand, a teenager who is having a difficult time in school may appreciate the chance to start fresh and make new social connections.
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