There’s a reason why St. George, Utah was named the number one fastest growing metro area in America. The city’s great schools, safe neighborhoods, and high-quality of living are all factors that attract new residents… especially families!
So as more and more choose to make St. George their new home, there are a few things that parents should keep in mind before the first day of school.
Where Do I…?
When you make the move and begin to settle into your new St. George home, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with your neighborhood—especially if you’ve never lived in this area before!
By taking a walk or drive around your community, you’ll learn more about what you can see or do nearby. This is also a great way to help both you and the kids feel more comfortable around your new neighborhood. Soon enough, you’ll be able to recognize certain roads and landmarks, and your home won’t feel so new!
Mapping out the route you’ll take to school (or even looking up images and information on the school website) can also help the children feel less nervous about their first day.
Connected… With Just One Click!
Learning more about your child’s new school through their website can give you information about the extracurricular activities and programs they offer, what the latest news is, and what the atmosphere is like. The school may even have their own checklist for new students or for preparing for the new school year!
If your neighborhood has a Homeowner’s Association, their website can give you more information and updates about your community. Attending events can be a wonderful way to meet your new neighbors—and this can also be a great opportunity for the kids to make some new friends!
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy
It’s important that everyone learns in a safe environment! In Utah, children must have specific health records and immunizations checked off before beginning school (specifically before entering preschool, kindergarten, and grade seven). Be familiar with what records your child needs to have and any other medical information you must have ready.
You can look up everything you need to know online. Plus, there are additional resources and support services provided that can help with any sort of anxiety or nervousness your child may be feeling about starting a new school.
A Simple Heart to Heart
It can be a bit overwhelming to start a new school in a brand new place! From your child’s perspective, their friends are all back home, and they might not know anyone in your new neighborhood. They might worry about their new teachers, or about making friends, or even if they’re going to have a lot of homework. Changing schools can be stressful (for you and your child!)—especially if you begin school right in the middle of the year.
Beyond getting all the necessary school supplies for the academic year ahead, talking to your child about how they feel about this change is immensely important. No matter how young or old your child is, it’s good to sit down and discuss how they’re feeling.
The first steps are always the most challenging, but St. George schools have great students and knowledgeable teachers. Let’s have a great year ahead!
Posted by David Ellis on
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