April showers might bring May flowers, but in North Texas, August heat brings school supplies, and school crossing lights.
“A new school year means new beginnings, new adventures … and new challenges,” admits About.com’s Parenting Teens Resources Guide publisher, Denise Witmer.
Obvious challenges include new sleep schedules, changes to dinner routines and for some folks, adjusting to a new school [whether your child is a rising freshman or the whole family is new to the community].
Change is hard and when that comes on the heels of a move, change can be painful. I have a deep understanding and compassion for those moving because I have done it a lot personally (13 times before my own 7th grade school year) and as a Realtor. Along the way, I’ve learned a few things about how to make the transition easier for mom, dad, brother, sister … heck, even the dog.
Implement a game plan … Yes, kids are resilient. And it’s proven that kids thrive with known expectations. Before you spring the exciting news on them, work out as many of the details as possible. This way when they ask questions, you have answers.
Maintain a positive outlook … Children pick up on your emotional cues. If you are stressed, they are too. Talk about how excited you are to explore the new town and work with them on how to introduce themselves to new people. Make looking forward a family mindset.
Keep as many routines as possible, and also be ok to take a break … Something as simple as keeping bedtime consistent offers a child stability, especially in the chaos of purging what isn’t going to the new place and packing what is. That being said, notice when the regular bath routine isn’t enough; stop, drop on the couch, and breath with your little one. You’ll both appreciate it.
Involve your child … Each age bracket needs a different level of ownership in the process … itty-bitties may only want to decorate the boxes that go to their room while teens may require the opportunity to pick their own paint colors for the new house. Assigning jobs like checking all the kitchen drawers to be sure nothing was left behind or running to the new front door to open it up because mom’s arms are full can help kids feel like they’ve contributed.
Say Goodbye … Leaving can be scary not just for what the unknown ahead but for the loss of leaving. Plan a party or schedule time for last playdates. Walk thru the rooms and halls and share favorite memories. And, allow for grieving both together as a family and for each individual to process in their own way.
Moving is a difficult and necessary part of life, whether transitioning from elementary to middle or Tucson to Dallas. Recognizing that is assignment number 1.