But kids may not view things the same way, especially if they have close pals and/or family where they live currently. The concept of moving to a new school and away from current relationships can cause a lot of apprehension in children.
While it may be difficult for kids to move away from the usual people, places, and things, there are things you can do to ease the transition to Dallas.
Honest Communication
Make sure they know about each stage down the process. Children should feel safe to express their jitters as well as being able to ask questions so be ready to supply facts and answer any questions they might have. While some of their views and worries may be negative, be there for them with empathy and optimistic answers. Make sure to not invalidate their worries but, instead, acknowledge their concerns and find ways that you can work together to reduce them.
Introduce Them to Their New Home in Dallas
When feasible, let them visit the new neighborhood and even to the new residence. Let them get familiarized with where they'll be moving to. If it's not achievable to visit the new home and locale, take pictures or videos so they'll have some idea of what the new abode will look like. Be sure to point out all of the beneficial elements of the move (larger rooms, gigantic yard, etc.).
Take them for a Tour of the School
It may not be practicle to do a school tour physically, but nearly all schools in America have a web presence. Visit the local school board's website and you will likely find links to your child(ren's) new school(s). Tell them about the wide selections of school organizations and activities that they might participate in. School can be a big source of worry for children and also one of the largest parts of their lives, so it's crucial that they are feeling comfortable prior to starting a new school. If you're capable of taking them on an actual tour of the new school, be make to introduce them to administrators like the principals and guidance counselors.
Involve Them in Packing
There are a lot of age-appropriate methods that kids can be included in the chore of packing up. Have them help you box up their personal belongings in moving boxes and let them label the boxes of their items. (An added benefit is they can sort through their stuff and give away or throw out items that they no longer use.)
Stick with Routines
Moving to Dallas can be a crazy and tiring occasion for parents but do not let this deter you from staying with the same recognizable schedules the kids are accustomed to. Children require predictability to feel safe and moving time is one of those occasions when it's even more necessary. Since they're already enduring a period of unpredictability by moving to a different place, it is even more important to keep as many things familiar as possible.
Decorate Their Rooms First
Kids need structure and familiarity so it's imperative that their new rooms be as familiar to them as possible. By decorating their bedrooms first, you let them know that they are valued parts of a new life. Keeping them involved in the process fortifies this need and helps them to feel loved and “at home”.
Investigate the New Neighborhood
Assist your children in getting familiar with the new neighborhood, landmarks, and neighbors. Encourage them to meet new friends and learn the geometry of the new area so they don't feel quite so lost.
Avoid Stress
When parents stress, kids stress. That is why it is helpful to utilize everything you possibly can to ensure you don't feel stressed out, yourself. By hiring a professional moving company to assist you in your household move, you nix lots of the stress from your shoulders so you can concentrate more on the vital stuff.
The ultimate goal when moving with kids is to be 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 loved are higher and they'll be much happier embracing your new home in Dallas.
