But children may not view things the same as you, especially if they have close buddies and/or family where they live already. The idea of moving to a different school and away from current relationships can create a bunch of angst in children.
While it could be rough for children to move away from familiar people, places, and things, there are things you should do to help with the transition to El Paso.
Honest Communication
Be sure they know about each step along the process. Children must feel safe to express their concerns as well as being able to ask questions so be ready to offer information and answer any questions they could have. While some of their opinions and worries may be negative, be prepared with empathy and optimistic answers. Make sure to not brush off their fears but, rather, acknowledge their concerns and explain solutions that you can work together to overcome them.
Introduce Them to Their New Home in El Paso
When possible, let them visit the new community and even to the new residence. Let them get acquainted to where they'll be moving to. If it's not possible to take them to tour the new house and neighborhood, take pictures or videos so they will have some idea of what the new abode will be like. Be sure to point out all of the positive features of the move (bigger rooms, big yard, etc.).
Take them for a Tour of the School
It may not be practicle to do a school visit physically, but the vast majority of schools in America have a web presence. Look up the local school board's website and you will most of the time find information about your child(ren's) new school(s). Tell them about the different school organizations and activities that they will be able to participate in. School is a big origin of worry for children and also an impactful part of their lives, so it's crucial that they are ready prior to starting a new school. If you are able to take them on an actual tour of the new school, be make to introduce them to key players like the principals and guidance counselors.
Involve Them in Packing
There are a lot of age-appropriate methods that children might be involved in the task of packing up. Let them help you pack up their personal possessions in moving boxes and let them label the boxes of their items. (A perk is they can pick through their stuff and donate or discard things that they no longer use.)
Stick with Routines
Moving to El Paso might be a frantic and exhaustive occasion for parents but don't allow this to deter you from sticking with the same familiar schedules the kids are accustomed to. Children need to have predictability to feel safe and moving time is one of those occasions when it is very necessary. Since they're already going through a time of uncertainty by moving to a different place, it is very crucial to keep as many things familiar as possible.
Decorate Their Rooms First
Kids need structure and familiarity so it is a good idea that their new rooms be as familiar to them as possible. By getting their new bedrooms furnished and decorated first, you let them know that they are important parts of a new life. Keeping them involved in the process fortifies this need and makes them feel special and “at home”.
Investigate the New Neighborhood
Assist your children in getting familiar with the new neighborhood, landmarks, and neighbors. Encourage them to make new friends and grasp the layout of the new area so they don't feel quite so lost.
Avoid Stress
When parents stress, kids stress. That's why it's a good idea to do everything you possibly can to make sure you do not feel stressed out, yourself. By arranging for a professional moving company to assist you in your residential move, you nix lots of the stress from your shoulders so you can concentrate more on the important stuff.
The ultimate goal when moving with kids is to make sure they are feeling safe and secure. If you take every opportunity to help them see the good side of the move and get excited about it, your chances of making them feel important are magnified and they will be much happier embracing your new residence in El Paso.
