The Rocca Sisters Blog

Welcome to our weekly feature, Ask the Rocca Sisters, where we answer the important questions from clients, colleagues and members of our community. This week our question comes from Leslie K. who asks: “My husband and I are very motivated to sell our home, but we are not sure whether we should put our house up for sale before the end of the school year. Our three children are in a school district we really like and we’re hesitant to move them before they finish the year at their current school. Do you have any tips to help us make our decision?”

Question: Should I Relocate During the School Year?

Hi there! Tanya Rocca back to answer this great question. As a parent myself, I can completely relate to the concern of uprooting your children before the school year is finished. Relocating your family has its built-in challenges, but it can be especially stressful if you are moving to an entirely different neighbourhood during the school year. In addition to packing up the contents of your home, it’s important to get familiarized with your new surroundings, register your child for school, and manage any feelings of anxiety they may be experiencing.

If you have a family and are considering relocating during the school year, there are a few things you should know to make your relocation as stress-free as possible.

Research Schools Nearby

Start by researching nearby schools to see at what point they accept new students and for registration details. Once you have established a starting date for your child, request a tour so that they can be comfortable in their new surroundings, and maybe even meet some new friends.

Get to Know the New Neighbourhood

Once you’ve decided on a school for your child, have a look at the new neighbourhood as a family. Walk them through nearby parks, take them out for dinner at a local restaurant, and get them accustomed to their new surroundings. This will make them feel more comfortable, and hopefully right at home. With summer coming up, enrol your children in some community activities that spark their interest. They’ll be likely to meet kids their own age who might be their classmates.

Include the Entire Family

Keep the whole family involved with important decisions. This will reduce anxious feelings and stress. It’s crucial to ensure your child is comfortable with their new school and neighbourhood before the school year begins in September.

Stick to your Family Regimen

Changing schools and moving homes can make a child feel like their entire world is changing. Reassure them that this isn’t the case by sticking to your family rituals, and include their friends whenever possible.

Moving to a new city or town during the school year can be difficult for children of all ages. Parents should communicate with school-aged children in particular about the changes to ease their fears and assure them that they are going to an exciting new place filled with new friends and activities.

If you are considering relocating, we will help you look at factors beyond price, helping to match your lifestyle needs and wants with the right home.

Good luck, Leslie! 

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