But children may not see things the same as you, particularly if they have close buddies and/or family where they live currently. The idea of moving to a different school and away from established relationships can cause a lot of angst in children.
While it could be difficult for children to move away from familiar folks, places, and things, there are things you should do to ease the transition to Atlanta.
Honest Communication
Be sure they are aware each step down the process. Children should feel free to express their fears as well as asking questions so be prepared to provide facts and answer any questions they could have. While a few of their thoughts and concerns may be negative, be there for them with empathy and positive answers. Be careful to not invalidate their worries but, instead, acknowledge their concerns and find ways that you can work together to defeat them.
Introduce Them to Their New Home in Atlanta
When possible, take them to the new community and even to the new house. Let them get a feel for where they will be moving to. If it is not a possibility to go to the new home and area, take pictures or videos so they'll have an impression of what the new place will look like. Make sure to call attention to all of the positive aspects of the move (larger rooms, huge yard, etc.).
Take them for a Tour of the School
It may not be possible to do a school visit on site, but most education institutions in America have a website. Visit the local school board's website and you'll usually find links to your child(ren's) new school(s). Explain to them the wide selections of school clubs and activities that they will be able to participate in. School may be a big source of stress for children and also one of the largest parts of their lives, so it is crucial that they are ready prior to starting a new school. If you're capable of taking them on a physical 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 children can be included in the chore of packing up. Have them assist you box up their personal things in moving boxes and allow them to label the boxes of their items. (A bonus is they can pick through their things and donate or throw out things that they no longer use.)
Stick with Routines
Moving to Atlanta can be a stressful and exhaustive time for parents but do not let this deter you from keeping the same recognizable routines the kids are used to. Children need to have consistency to feel secure and moving time is one of those times when it is very necessary. Since they're already going through a period of change by moving to a new place, it's even more vital to keep as many things familiar as possible.
Decorate Their Rooms First
Kids need organization and familiarity so it's important that their new rooms be as familiar to them as possible. By making their new bedrooms first priority, you establish them as valued 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
Guide your children in getting to know the new area, landmarks, and neighbors. Encourage them to meet new friends and get to know the geometry of the new area so they don't feel quite so disoriented.
Avoid Stress
When parents stress, kids stress. That's why it is a good idea to employ everything you can think of to ensure you don't get stressed out, yourself. By hiring a professional moving company to aid you in your residential move, you nix lots of the stress from your back so you can focus more on the vital stuff.
The end game when moving with kids is to make sure they feel safe and secure. If you seize every chance to help them see the happy side of the move and get excited about it, your chances of making them feel cherished are magnified and they'll be much happier embracing your new house in Atlanta.
