Easing Kids into a New School

Getting set up in a new city is tough. And if you have kids along for the ride, you can bet they, too, are going to have a difficult time adjusting – especially in a new school.
 
Moving to a new city requires a complete adjustment. You have to locate a new favorite coffee spot, find the best grocery store with the lowest prices and learn the names of streets and highways just so you can get from point A to B.
 
But if you are bringing kids along to your new locale, then you are not the only one who has to make a few adjustments. One of the toughest changes will come when it is time to send your little ones off to school. A big move is scary enough for children, but a new school opens up a whole new realm of fears.
 
Here are a few ways to help ease your tots school woes:
 
*Take a trip to the new school. Before you send your child along on the big yellow bus, consider visiting the new school. Set up a meeting with school officials and take a tour of the school. Point out your child's classroom and even his or her desk so that it will feel more familiar when the first day rolls around. Another option is to visit fun spots, like the playground and identify of your child's favorite areas, such as the swings or slide.
 
*Send along something special. Some kids find comfort in keeping their favorite stuffed animal in their book bag, or finding a reassuring note from mom or dad in their lunchbox. These things may your child to feel more comfortable when confronted with unknown faces.
 
*Join a play group or club. Local children's groups can be the ideal setting for helping kids to meet new friends and adjust to new surroundings. You may also want to set up play dates with kids around your neighborhood. Identifying a familiar face will make going to school that much easier.
 
We're curious: What have you done to help your child adjust to a new school?