Easter and spring are both times of renewal, rebirth, and change, as it is the beginning of a new season. For some of us that will mean uprooting and planting new seeds elsewhere. Perhaps you’re moving house, or school, or starting a new job. For those going through a period of rebirth, renewal, and change, what are some ways we can make this change to a new environment or situation easier for our families and ourselves?
For those moving house, the most important thing is to make sure you don’t feel like a stranger in your new surroundings. Make your house a home by christening rooms in the house, decorating your kids’ rooms with their personal belongings (and let them help in the unpacking and decorating process, so they have a hand in creating their own space).
Have a stockpot night in the kitchen followed by family game night in the living room. Start to create new memories in your new space. Infrastructure and routine are also particularly important during this period. Keeping the household and your family’s new routine on track will help everything to run smoothly.
When your children are moving to a new school, if possible, get involved in school activities, when you can. Be consistent with setting up regular play dates for your child with their new friends, so they become more quickly ingrained in their social efforts. Get to know your child’s teachers and school staff as well as other parents (especially the parents of your child’s friends).
With both moving house and a new school, the community that exists outside of your walls and school grounds is also vital to successfully planting and growing your family in your new surroundings. Visit local resources like playgrounds and community centers to find out what is available in your area. Take a class or sign your child up for their favorite sport to play on a team. Make it a point to patronize local businesses like coffee shops, smoothie bars, restaurants, etc to get to know the owners and meet people in the community. Getting involved in fetes and summer festivals. Fundraisers are also a great way to meet new people and enrich yourself in everything the community has to offer.
If you’re starting a new job, community is also important. Your co-workers are your office community. Get to know them. If there’s a specific co-worker or two with whom you connect or bond, meet them for brunch, a drink, or perhaps dinner with your partner so you can all get to know each other better.
No matter what beginning or rebirth you are going through, make sure community, routine, infrastructure, and making a space or place your own are key elements to making a fresh start a grounded and exciting experience. Be open to new things, embrace the change, and branch out in your new soil.
x Jo
Copywritten by Jo Frost