Summer is traditionally a popular time of year for home buying and selling. We often like to let our kids finish up the school year and start a new school fresh at the beginning. But while you’re busy with thoughts of home inspections, escrow, and cleaning out your closets, you shouldn’t forget that your kids could be going through an emotionally tough time.
There are some things you can do to help them with the transition:
1. Let them visit their new school ahead of time. If possible, try to meet the school’s principal and teacher before school starts. Let your child get the lay of the land before the chaotic first day of school. Teachers and administrators are usually on campus the few days or week or two before school starts preparing for the new school year.
2. Research activities for your child. Is your child a soccer player? A scout? Into drama? Carve out some time from packing and worrying about the escrow details and research the teams, clubs and organizations that your child can participate in. Make some phone calls or send emails ahead of time so you know what to expect as far as try-outs and schedules go. Give your child something to look forward to.
3. Let them help decorate their new room. Show your child their new room (or pictures of it) and let them help in decorating. Let them choose what color to paint the walls and help them find accessories and posters unique to their personalities.
4. Encourage maintaining old friendships. Assure your child that their old friends will only be a phone call or text message away. Plan a moving-away party so your child can gather with her friends before leaving.
5. Be calm. Kids mimic the stress level of their parents. If you’re worried about this or that and letting it show, your child is going to worry, too. If you present a calm and excited demeanor, then your child is more likely to follow suit.
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