Moving With Teenagers

No matter how much you prepare, your teen likely will take issue with moving, especially if the move involves switching schools.

Leaving behind old friends and being the new kid at school are two common concerns for teens when a family relocates. A move during the summer could make the transition easier. Another option is allowing your teen to stay behind with a relative or trusted friend to finish the school year. Open communication and input from your teen helps ease the transition to your new home.

• Step 1: Sit down with your teen to share the news about the move as early as possible. This gives him time to mentally prepare for the move and deal with potentially negative emotions. Explain why the family is moving, as well as the timeline and other details you know about the move.
• Step 2: Encourage your teen to share his feelings about the relocation. Listen to his fears and complaints about the upcoming move. Talk about your own feelings regarding the move so your teen knows he's not the only one with reservations.
• Step 3: Visit the city where you're moving, if possible. Take your teen to his new school. Let him explore what the city has to offer so he can see the potential good in the relocation.
• Step 4: Listen to your teen's opinion on move issues. Take him to look at homes or rental properties in the new location. Let him decorate his new room. Engage him during and after the move to keep him active in the family.
• Step 5: Encourage your teen to get involved in the new city. Suggest sports clubs, recreation centers and similar group activities that allow him to make new friends.
• Step 6: Make it easy for your teen to keep in touch with his old friends. Choose a phone plan that allows plenty of chatting time, or get him a cellphone plan with plenty of minutes. Get Internet access as soon as you arrive so he can email his friends.
• Step 7: Visit your old city when possible so your teen can see his old friends. Let your teen plan the trip to ensure he gets the most out of the visit.