By: Brian S.
It’s no secret that the peak of moving season comes during the summer. A big reason for this is due to the fact that parents don’t want their kids switching schools in the middle of the school year. For children/teens, changing schools can be extremely difficult. It’s important to help your kids with this transition to ensure them the best opportunities for success. Below are some tips to help your kids get through this “end of the world” scenario:
1. Take a trial run: Especially for younger children, it’s important for them to visualize where they’re going. Before school starts, drive them to school, and if possible, take a tour of the school itself. If they’ll be taking a bus, show them where the bus stop is. If they’re walking, print out a map of their route… If you’re feeling really ambitious, make it a treasure map!
2. Research events happening in your new neighborhood. Finding ways to engage your children in the community will provide a great way for them to make friends or find hobbies. Think sporting events, book fairs, community centers, etc.
3. Host a BBQ: This is a great way to connect with families in the neighborhood. And with some luck, these families will bring their kids. Socializing with neighbors will provide a good model for kids and hopefully promote friendships.
4. Stay Positive: This one is kind of a given, but it’s crucial to keep a positive spin on the situation. Remind your kids that they’re not the only ones going through this transition and that the start of the school year means new friends and new adventures!
5. Stock Up: There are all sorts of wild and whacky school supplies out there these days. Take advantage of this and turn school supply shopping into your kids own personal shopping day!
6. Harness the Power of Lunchtime: Next to being born, lunchtime on the first day of school may be the single most important time in a kids’ life. You’d be amazed at how much of a conversation starter cinnamon flavored Dunkaroos can be… As they say, the boy with the best lunch gets all the girls.