How to Handle Moving to a Different State & Schools for Teens

When you inform your teen that you're relocating to another state, she may act as if you are tearing her world apart -- and with good reason, according to psychologist and school counselor Steve Atkins, in an article entitled "Moving Day: Teens Can Cope With Family Relocation." Atkins states that teens spend considerable time and effort developing friendships and understanding the social rules of their peer group. When a teen's social relationships are threatened, she can become angry and hard to handle. To avoid this, you can take steps to help your teen accept and adjust to the fact that the move is inevitable.

Instructions

  1. Before the Move

    • 1

      Arrange a time to sit down with your teen and tell her about the move to a new state and school. Don't delay the news; tell her as soon as you can so she can have time to adjust emotionally.

    • 2

      Give your teen as many details as possible about the new place you will be moving, such as what the city or town is like and what activities are available. Take the time to answer all his questions.

    • 3

      Ask her for her opinion about the houses you are considering buying or renting. If you can, take her along when you view homes. This can peak her interest if she starts thinking about a new room and all the possibilities in her new neighborhood.

    • 4

      Contact the school where he will transfer and ask about any special requirements for enrollment so that he will be prepared in advance. Arrange a visit to the school, if possible, so your teen can actually see the place where he will attend school.

    • 5

      Allow your teen to plan a going away party with his friends. It can be at your home or a favorite hang-out. Girls may enjoy a scrapbook party where they get together, take photos and make scrapbooks as keepsakes.

    After the Move

    • 6

      Allow your teen to contact her old friends through texting, talking on the phone or using the Internet. Set a reasonable limit on the amount of time she can use each month.

    • 7

      Join a church as soon as possible, if you belonged to one before. This can help you resume your previous routines and possibly bring comfort to your teen. In fact, try to keep all of your old routines intact as much as possible.

    • 8

      Participate, as a family, in some of the local activities the town or city has to offer. If you've moved to an area with limited recreation, plan a few weekend trips.

    • 9

      Find a way to get your teen involved in something that interests him such as a recreational sport or some type of lessons. Look for a teen center or after-school club.

    • 10

      Show your teen patience and understanding when she seems unhappy or angry that she can't see her friends. Be willing to listen to her complaints and offer positive suggestions to help her adjust to her new life.

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