How to Prepare a Child for Moving to Chicago

By eHow Parenting Editor

Rate: (0 Ratings)

Chicago, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is the cultural and financial hub of the Midwest. It is one of the nation's largest cities and home to the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs and White Sox. Make sure your child knows all of these facts when you tell him that it will be his new home.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Tell your child about your upcoming move to Chicago at your earliest opportunity. Tell her why the move is important to your family. Make sure you know a little about the city already.

Step2

Help him get excited about Chicago by finding out about the city. Go to your local bookstore and search the Internet together.

Step3

Talk to her about future trips to the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum. The Museum of Science and Industry is a Chicago favorite. Exploring Chicago can be a fun family bonding experience in your first few months there.

Step4

Look into the activities that your child enjoys and show him that he will be able to participate in those in Chicago as well. Not only will he be able to take part in his favorite activities, but he will be able to enjoy many on a professional level as well, with pro sports teams, professional theater, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and art museums.

Step5

Visit Chicago prior to moving. The trip should be designed to be fun and get everyone excited about the move. Let each child pick an activity or visit a place they would all enjoy.

Step6

Ask your child what concerns she has about moving and address them. If she has concerns about leaving her friends, help her collect addresses and phone numbers.

Step7

Try and visit his new school during the school year. Seeing the kids laughing and interacting will make the school seem less imposing.

Tips & Warnings

Be positive about the move. If you are not positive do not expect them to be.
Plan to get involved in activities and meet neighbors as soon as possible.
Focus on your new neighborhood. Let your child help with house hunting if possible.
Address their concerns. Do not dismiss them.