The 3S Approach

-The Setup

-The Selection

-The Sale

Buyers' Resource Section:

1. Recognize the Pain that Your Decision Will Cause
   Your child's thoughts here are serious and cause them emotional trauma. Be sensitive to these feelings. Your teenager probably feels that this decision takes all of their control away. They no longer can cope. Reassure them that leaving little Johnny will not affect them the rest of their lives. But also realize that this is a tragedy in their worlds.



2. Consider the time of your move.
   There are pros and cons to moving a child at any time, however moving during the summer is usually preferred. Moving in the summer allows your child to attend the long awaited end of year activities involved with sports, clubs, and the like. Your child will not have to adjust to a new curriculum and testing routine in the middle of a school year, or worse yet, a semester. However, the pros to a spring move are the prerequisite activities required for participation the following year. (i.e. cheer or band camp, summer football practice, eligibility for district sports, etc.) It has also been illustrated that "the New Kid" is a novelty in the spring months of a school term. This allows your child to make friendships that coax her/him through the first summer. Remember to bring this up with the child later.



3. Establish Some Life For Your Child Before The Move
   A member of a sports team a week after arrival in your new home is a prime example. Allow your child to choose their activities in their new area before they get there. The easiest way to accomplish this feat is call your Relocation Specialist and have them send you an array of brochures and information about every activity available. Then let your child choose what they want to do. Remember that as a parent you can encourage, but pushing your child usually ends up negatively. Be patient with your child and they will find something they like to do.



4. Make Plans to Keep in Touch With Friends
   Never talking to little Johnny again is a troubling thought for a child. Remember to promote your children's communication with E-mail, telephone, and letters to their old friends.