Why Schools Matter During a Family Move
Schools are important places for kids—they’re where they make friends, explore their interests, learn about themselves and form core memories. But not every school is the same.
Experts agree that there are psychological effects of moving frequently as a child, and different schools provide different levels of support for “the new kid.” A good school can help children adjust, build stability and maintain mental health. Plus, a school’s environment impacts overall family satisfaction and community integration.
When to Start Researching Schools
When you know you’re going to move, it’s smart to start researching schools as early as you can. If possible, choose a school district before settling on a neighborhood or city to prioritize your child’s best interests. Preparing well in advance can help your family settle into your new home and minimize disruption for children.
Choosing the Best State or Area for Families with Kids
Choosing the best state to move to with family can be intimidating. Narrow down your choices by researching state rankings for education, safety and healthcare.
According to Wallethub.com, the Midwest and Northeast are excellent regions to raise a family in. Its study of the top family-friendly states included factors like median annual family income, housing affordability, health care quality, crime rate and school quality. Its highest-rated states are:
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Illinois
- Wisconsin
- Maine
- Connecticut
Once you’ve chosen your ideal state, narrow down to the community level by looking at local amenities like parks, libraries, sports and after-school programs.
How to Find Good Public Schools
When deciding on the best place to move with kids, you’ll want to take these factors into consideration:
- Average test scores
- Curriculum standards
- Extracurricular activities offered
- Student-to-teacher ratios
- Resources and support for students with learning differences or special interests and talents
You can research these considerations with online resources like GreatSchools and Niche. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, search local school district websites, visit local parent forums and join Facebook groups to get real-life insights.
The right school will depend on your family and its needs, but it should balance educational excellence with support for your child’s interests and learning style.
What Makes a School ‘Family Friendly’?
Especially when you’re moving across the state or across the country, choosing a school that’s actively involved and supportive of your family is incredibly important. A good school can minimize the instability of moving through counselor availability, emotional support services, community engagement and family events.
Other signs that schools support families are: robust health and safety standards, accessibility for children with special needs and preparation for pre-school-aged kids.
Moving Tips for Families with Young Children
Moving is often hard on kids of any age, but moving with a toddler or young child presents its own challenges. Removing them from familiar surroundings and people can be disorienting for kids who can’t grasp exactly what’s happening yet.
It’s important to maintain your child’s routines as much as possible through the move. Involve them in age-appropriate packing activities, like letting them pack their stuffed animals and toys. If possible, tour your child’s new school with them so they can acclimate to the new environment.
Overall, reducing your child’s stress and fostering emotional security can make moving easier on the whole family.
How Bekins Van Lines Supports Your Family Move
Just like choosing the right school can set the tone for a smoother, happier transition, choosing the right moving company can make all the difference when moving with kids.
Bekins has been handling family moves with care and professionalism since 1891. We prioritize attention to detail, flexibility and support through every step of your journey.
Contact us or get a free estimate to see how Bekins can make your family move worry-free today.
