You may have great reasons for moving — a much better job, better schools, closer to family, etc. But whatever your reason, moving is almost always hard on your children. In fact, Cincinnati pediatrician Dr. Mona Mansour found in a study that children who change schools frequently are more likely to have both academic and behavioral issues. Fortunately, you can help your children adjust to their new schools and make the transition easier.
Time Your Move
Moving to a new house is tough in itself. Try to time your move at the beginning of the summer so your child has time to adjust to the new house before having to adjust to a new school. This will hopefully also give your child time to meet some new friends before school starts.
Visit the New School in Advance
If possible, take your children to visit their new school before the school year begins. Find the cafeteria and gym and play on the [tag-ice]playground[/tag-ice]. If your child has made any friends who will also be attending the school, ask them to show your child around.
Your school may have an orientation or Open House night. Be sure to attend so you and your children can meet their teachers and get an opportunity to ask questions.
Check on the Logistics
Your children’s old school should have sent their records to the new school. Call the school office to make sure this happened.
After a move, you are your children’s stability and lifeline. Ask them how they are doing, but don’t pressure them. Be patient and encouraging. Moving is tough, but you can help your children adjust to their new lives and find happiness in their new home.
How can I help my child adjust to starting at a new school?
Give your child time to settle in and build community connections before the first day. Look for ways to get them involved—a local church, sports classes, or neighborhood activities—so they have a social foundation before school begins. Once school starts, encourage joining clubs and extracurricular activities to help them find their footing.
When is the best time to move so it’s easier on my child?
If possible, time the move for the beginning of summer. That gives your child time to adjust to the new house and neighborhood before also having to adjust to a new school. It also opens a window for meeting new friends before the school year starts, which makes that first day far less intimidating.
Should I take my child to visit their new school before the first day?
Yes—whenever possible, visit the school in advance. Walk through the cafeteria and gym, find the classroom, and if any future classmates are available, let them give a tour. Many schools host an orientation or Open House night where you can meet teachers and ask questions. Familiarity with the building makes the first day much less stressful.
What can I expect emotionally from my child during a school move?
Research by Cincinnati pediatrician Dr. Mona Mansour found that children who change schools frequently can face both academic and behavioral challenges—but with the right support, most children adjust. Be their stability. Ask how they’re doing, but don’t pressure them for details. Patience and encouragement matter more than any single strategy.
Stacey Schifferdecker is the happy but harried mother of three school-aged children—two boys and a girl. She is also a freelance writer, a Children’s Minister, a PTA volunteer, and a Scout leader. Stacey has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and French and a Master’s degree in English. She has written extensively about parenting and education as well as business, technology, travel, and hobbies.
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