How To Help Your Teen Settle Into A New Town
By Meaghan Archer
Starting out in a new town is exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. Your teen will need to find new friends, join new teams and get settled at a high school filled with new faces. Here are some ways you can help your teen adjust to their new life in a new town.
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Explain Why
By Meaghan Archer
When you break the news to your kid that your family will be moving, explain why. Whether it’s due to a new job, a change of scenery or an opportunity to be closer to family, your teen will have an easier time settling in if they know there is a good reason behind the move.
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Acknowledge Their Feelings
By Meaghan Archer
If your teen is putting up a fight about moving, don’t pretend like you can’t hear their complaints. Acknowledge their feelings and share yours. Let them know that you understand why they feel upset and that you too are leaving behind memories and friends.
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Back In Routine
By Meaghan Archer
Once you’ve moved, try and get everyone back into their old routines again. Keeping busy will help distract your teen from any negative thoughts they had about the move. They’ll also be able to make friends and become acquainted with the community by playing sports, attending classes and getting out of the house.
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Explore Together
By Meaghan Archer
Take a bike ride, walk around your new city center, or have dinner where all the locals like to eat. Exploring your new home together will make your teen feel like they’re not in this alone and remind them that the rest of the family is also going through an adjustment period. You’re also doing it together, and that’s what matters.
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Don’t Complain
By Meaghan Archer
If you’re not feeling the new neighborhood, or your new job isn’t all you thought it was cracked up to me, keep your comments to yourself. Your teen will resent you if they know you uprooted their life and aren’t happy about where you landed. Keep it positive—this will help you both settle into the swing of things.
