Entering a New School Tips

We are relocating from Minneapolis to Harrisburg, Penn., before school starts. My 12-year-old will be entering middle school. She is very afraid of the whole situation and doesn't deal too well with change. We will be visiting the new town and buying a home. Hopefully, on that trip she will get to visit the school so that she will feel more at ease. How can I make this move easier for her? - Moving
Answer: The earlier you can move this summer, the better it will be for your daughter, as she will have the chance to feel more at home in her new community. When looking for a home, try to find an area with children her age. An area with new homes would be a good choice, as all the children will be looking for friends. After your family has moved, you and your husband should talk to neighbors and co-workers and ask if they know children who will be attending your daughter's school. If she is introduced to these children, she will at least see a few familiar faces when school starts. You might also wish to point out that there will be other children looking for friends in her classes, as middle schools draw from several elementary schools.
If the school is not open when you visit your new town, contact the district office to find out when it will be so you can enroll your daughter before school starts. She should definitely go with you to be enrolled and take part in the selection of classes. Be sure that she has the chance to familiarize herself with the building, lockers and transportation arrangements. Find out if there is an orientation session, as it would be extremely helpful for her.
You can also help your daughter find new friends in the community during the summer by inquiring about sports, library, volunteer, parks or music programs that are run locally. And be sure to find out if there are any school activities beginning before school actually starts.