After the Move: Adjusting to Life in a New School District

When a family moves, the kids may need to change schools. Adjusting to life in a new school district impacts the entire family. Here are some tips to make everything easier for everyone:

Be Proactive

Every school district has its own unique culture. Different facilities operate differently, which impacts everything from the school schedule to how homework is handled, what meals are served in the cafeteria, what sports and after school activities are available, and more. It is never too soon to begin to frame appropriate expectations about what life in your new school district is going to be like. Parents can and should proactively reach out the new school district to facilitate a smooth transition for their child. If possible, arrange for your kids to have a tour of the building and meet their teachers prior to starting classes for the first time. This may not always be an option, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Maintain Proven Effective Routines

Every child has their own way of handling schoolwork. If there are study and homework routines that work well for your child, maintain them after you’ve moved to the new school district. Generally, academic expectations are pretty universal: your child will be asked to pay attention, complete assignments, take tests, and work well with others. The methods you’ve used to help your child succeed in these areas will likely translate effectively to life in the new district. Especially important? Maintaining consistent bedtime and morning routines.

Be Ready for a Range of Emotions

Kids are surprising. The child you may have expected to hate the new school can embrace it with open arms – and vice versa. A child’s feelings about their new school may evolve and change over time. There will be good days and bad days. As a parent or caregiver, your role is to provide meaningful emotional support. This means listening to their concerns and feelings, celebrating what’s good, and helping your child find a way to address situations that need to be improved.

Take It One Day at a Time

Transitioning to a new school takes time. Education experts report that it takes between 6-8 weeks for most children to adjust. There are factors that can impact this timeline: children who move frequently often acclimate faster; significant cultural changes can make the process take longer. No two children are alike. One sibling may settle in quickly while the other needs more time. Facing each day as an independent event and keeping communication open is the best thing you can do to help your children adjust.