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	Moving With Kids
	By Relocation Property Services

Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.

• may worry about being left behind or separated from parents
• reassure kids that you will be back when you go house-hunting
• bring them back something unique from the new town
• give them a job to do to involve them in the move
• have kids box their toys and "label" with crayons and stickers

• concerned with how everyday routines of their lives will change
• show them pictures, videos, and magazines of their new home
• find information about activities they enjoy (karate, dance, soccer)

• concerned with fitting in and worried about making new friends
• may react angrily to the move and insist they're not going
• feel a lack of control -- friends, school, jobs being disrupted
• curious about hairstyles, clothing, cars, etc. that kids will have
• take an orientation trip with kids or take detailed photos new town

• give young children an entertaining travel kit for the move
• give older children a diary for recording the trip and move
• give address book and stationary for keeping up with friends
• take videos of the new home if the kids won't get to see it
• arrive before movers so kids can explore and become acquainted
• give younger children a chore, such as working on their room
• give middle children a chore, such as supervising little siblings
• give older children a chore, such as painting or arranging furniture
• take a break with the family to explore the sights
• arrange a visit to new schools and a meeting with the teacher
• encourage the children to bring new friends home

• your realtor (part of their service and may have children in school)
• local newspapers (run stories on activities of local schools)
• local library (annual guide to private independent schools)
• "Choosing A School" (Consumer Info. Center / Pueblo, CO 81009)
• "Access to School Records" (call 1-800-NET-WORK)
• "How Parents Can Evaluate Their School" (call 1-800-NET-WORK)

• check the ranking of their language and math instruction
• ask about teacher-to-student ratios
• compare their test scores to the national and state averages
• observe the atmosphere and activities of the school
• ask about the size of the classes
• look at the diversity of their music, computer, and arts programs
• check academic standards (honor programs, merit scholars)
• investigate their sports programs
• inquire about graduation rates and college advancement
• look at the overall philosophy and values of the school

 

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