Moving is an exciting and often stressful transition, and when you’re moving with kids, there are additional details to consider. These include school and childcare costs, ways to get your child acclimated, and the timing of your move.
School and Childcare Costs
Is your child enrolled in a public or private school? If they’re moving from one to the other, you’ll need to consider the significant increase or decrease in the amount of money you’re paying for their education.
If you’re enrolling your child in a private school, it’s necessary to account for monthly or yearly tuition costs in your budget. If they’re in public school, you’ll have more flexibility with your financial situation. Regardless of school, you’ll have to determine if you need before- and after-school coverage for your child, as well. These can be great opportunities for your child to socialize with new friends who are their age; however, there may be an associated cost.
Childcare is another cost to consider. It may be more or less expensive, depending on where you move. Of course, you may be able to cut these costs by asking family members for help if they happen to live in the area. Or, if your circumstances allow, being a stay-at-home parent may be the most cost-effective choice, depending on the age of your child.
Ways to Get Your Child Acclimated
Generally speaking, younger children will find it easier to adjust to a new home. Infants and toddlers typically have little trouble acclimating to a new environment, but older children and teenagers may have difficulty leaving friends and neighbors behind.
Try to make the move positive for your kids by introducing new opportunities. Getting them involved in extracurriculars and afterschool programs can help your child meet new people, make friends, and further explore their interests.
Your child may prefer to stick with the extracurriculars that they were a part of in their old school district to keep things familiar. That’s okay, too, and you could potentially reduce your costs if you already have the required supplies or equipment.
If your child has an interest that’s outside your budget, you still have options. See if there are scholarships or foundations that assist in paying the extracurricular costs if you require financial assistance.
No matter what extracurriculars you decide on, you can increase your child’s enthusiasm, calm their nerves, and help them get more acclimated to their new environment by taking a tour of their new school. Their first days will be far more enjoyable if they already know their schedule, bus route, and teachers.
Timing of Your Move
There are generally two schools of thought when it comes to moving children to a new district. Many parents choose to move in the summer so that their children’s school year isn’t interrupted. They’ll have plenty of time to settle in before going back to school in the fall, and they may have the chance to meet others around the neighborhood. You’ll also have more time to get any school enrollment materials together.
Other parents move in the middle of the school year so that children can get used to their new environment as soon as possible. By transferring when the semester is still in session, you can quickly integrate your child into their new school. This approach may be better for kids who prefer jumping in right away and would find waiting through the summer to be more anxiety-inducing than helpful.
Finance Your Family’s Dream Home with PSECU
Moving can be complicated, but getting a mortgage doesn’t have to be. At PSECU, we can help you finance the home that best meets your family’s needs. We offer competitive rates, personal service, and peace of mind.
To learn more, check out our options today.