Moving to a new state can be a total culture shock for parents and kids alike. There is nothing you want more than for your family to be settled into a new environment. Creating a fresh support network can be incredibly difficult because it is a vital part of getting acquainted with a new place. 

It’s hard to figure out right off the bat where you fit in and it may take a little while before you do. You can make it easier for your kids to do just that by considering these steps. 

Do your research

The best way to prepare yourself for moving to a new town is to get to know the basics before you get there. Consider the area you are moving to. If your new home is located in close proximity to schools, the likelihood of there being kids in the area is much higher. If you have pets, even better. 

Dog parks are a great place to network for kids, parents and their beloved family pets. Ourfitpets.com will provide the best information about training and caring for your dog at the park and a cool list of superhero names for your lovely dogs. Kids will bond over superhero dog names they’ve given their best friends. You’re sure to leave the park with a few playdates for your kid’s social calendar. 

Join after-school/summer clubs

The best place to make friends or meet other kids is to go where the kids are. Most local rec centers or after-school programs are geared towards keeping kids social and active while they learn a new skill. Kids are given the opportunity to mingle with other like-minded people their own age. 

Summer clubs and after-school programs also offer children a wider social network. Schools often don’t facilitate a friend-making environment, which is especially true for the new kids in town. It can be intimidating for kids to try to make friends at school, which is why these programs are better for the job. 

Use social media to find groups

As a parent, you have access to a wide network of parents who you can lean on to provide information about a town or area. Social media groups geared towards activities for children and special programs can be incredibly helpful. You know your kid best, so you'll be able to find a good fit for them via these channels. 

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. After all, you are asking your child to do the same. Ask around within your work and social network about activities, events or playgroups that are popular with the kids in your child’s age group. You could be a great help to them. 

Be supportive

Let your children know they’re not alone in this. Just as they have, you’ve also moved away from your friends. Share your experience of making friends at work, figuring out how things work or where everything is. This will show them that you’re both in the same boat. 

This is reassuring as they can recognize their own struggles in your experience. If they realize it’s difficult for you too, it might encourage them to try again each day. Avoid discouraging language and maintain a sense of positivity, in that it is possible to make new friends. 

Don’t forget old friends

Your children will miss having a familiar support system of friends, family and teachers around them. The ease of old friends can be a great source of support in a new town. Connecting with their out-of-town posse might give them the confidence to go out and make new friends. 

Encourage communication with their friends back home. Try to remember how difficult it was and still is to go out and make new connections. In today’s tech-age, even younger kids have the opportunity to maintain long-distance friendships. Of course, the use of social media and tech is at your discretion.