When I was in middle school, my family moved to another state, and the first year there was honestly the worst one of my life (I know, I’m lucky to have such minor problems). I was at a new school with no friends and was super shy (and super mad at my parents). Of course, I eventually started talking to people and I love my state now, but it was one of the roughest times for me and my parents. If you are moving and you have kids, it’s not going to be a walk in the park. Some kids handle it better than others (younger ones do better than middle or high school aged kids), but you still have your work cut out for you. Check out these tips by Kristi at A Mom With A Lesson Plan for how to help your kids through a tough move and to keep your own sanity:
-Focus on a familiar routine and follow it strictly, it will help them feel like they are still in control of something
-Tell them about the move as soon as possible so they have more time to adjust
-Talk to them about their fears, and what they will be sad to leave behind. Talk to them about what they have to look forward to!
-Let them visit the new town and house a few times before you move there
These are great tips! I have some of my own as well:
-Do NOT move during the school year unless you absolutely can’t help it.
-Find a way to get them involved in the new community. Find an activity they like and get them into it! Look into local Girl / Boy Scout troops, sports teams, reading programs, and other organizations. It will help them make their first friends.
-Be ready for anger and tears, especially if your kids are older. Just know that they WILL get through it, and that you are not a bad parent.