How to Prepare a Child for Moving to Philadelphia

Moving can be emotionally jarring for anyone, especially children. If your family is relocating to Philadelphia, follow these steps to help your little ones make the adjustment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Internet connection
• Books about Philadelphia

1. Discuss the upcoming move to Philadelphia with your child. Be prepared for her to be upset at first, but talk through her concerns and get her excited about Philly.
2. Tell him about the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall. Let him know about Philadelphia’s important place in our nation’s history.
3. Plan to explore the Franklin Institute Science Museum and its fascinating science exhibits.
4. Let her read about Philadelphia and tell you interesting facts about it. She can accomplish this online, at the bookstore or in the library.
5. Follow the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies and 76ers. He doesn’t have to give up on his old team, but he will be hearing a lot about the new teams.
6. Ask questions of people you have met there about the activities that your child currently enjoys. Find out where she can take art, piano or violin lessons.
7. Visit Philadelphia with your child before you move. Make the trip fun and not just full of errands. This is your big chance to get him excited about the move.

Tips & Warnings

• Help your child put together a list of names, addresses and phone numbers of her old friends. Let her know it is okay to be sad about leaving them and that you will miss your friends as well.
• Be prepared to get involved in activities as soon as possible.
• Involve your child in as many of the moving preparations as you can.
• Do not be negative about moving or your child will be too.