Big changes, such as relocation, are never easy. Missing the people and places we love combined with fearing the unknown results in high levels of anxiety. Being less rational and more emotional, young children are affected the most. On top of that, there are many things to be done, like finding a new home in Jersey City, a new pediatrician and a new school for your kid(s). Our advice is to take all the help you can get in order to make the move easier for the entire family. Hiring professional Jersey City movers, for example, would be a great weight off your shoulders. Finding one of the best long distance movers NJ has to offer and a good NJ realtor means less stress and more time to focus on other things. When it comes to the youngest family members, learn how to tackle the challenges of moving with kids, and find the best preschools in Jersey City.
Tips for moving to Jersey City with kids
Moving with children can be emotionally draining. Fortunately, preschoolers usually adapt faster than older kids. Of course, every child has his/her own personality, hence with different kids we need different approaches. However, there are some common tricks that work for most children. Consider trying them if your little ones have trouble accepting and adjusting to the new environment.
Before the move
- Choose the right time to tell them. The sooner you tell them about the move, the more time they’ll have to prepare mentally. Most of us don’t like change, especially one that comes out of the blue. In addition, chose a happy moment to share the news, do it slowly and gradually.
- Talk about the move. Answer their questions regarding the move to New Jersey. Ask what worries them and try to find a solution together. Show them pictures of Jersey City, their new home and neighborhood in order to make things more predictable.
- Find something to look forward to. Focus on the best things about your new house or the fun things to do in Jersey City. Make it look like an exciting adventure.
- Introduce them to the new preschool. When you consider their new preschools in Jersey City, show them pictures, contact the teachers and let your child talk to them, if possible.
After the move
- Help them keep in touch with friends. Staying in touch with friends and other family members will ease the transition.
- Bring familiar objects. Having as many familiar objects as possible in the new home will also make children feel more comfortable.
- Do not change the rules. Keep the same rules and daily routines they’ve always had, even those they dislike.
- Seek professional help. Beginnings are always hard. However, if the child does not adapt over a longer time period, a good therapist will be able to help you.
The importance of preschool education
Jersey City is a great place for families thanks to the abundance of family-friendly entertainment, such as public playgrounds, parks and zoos, and most importantly, good schools. Unfortunately, many parents tend to underestimate preschool education. However, this is a very important stage in a child’s development and the very beginning of their education – the foundation on which further education is based. A good Jersey City preschool should be a stimulating environment where children get all the support necessary to grow and develop both physically and emotionally. They should learn things like sharing, making friends and participating in a group discussion. Essentially, preschool is the transition period that prepares children for the kindergarten experience.
Our choice for best preschools in Jersey City
Waterfront Montessori
Children from the age of 2 through 8th grade can attend this school. It is located in the Paulus Hook neighborhood, near the Hudson River. The school is founded by parents and run by parents. It provides individual and small group lessons, in a cooperative, non-competitive atmosphere. In addition, they believe that both younger and older children benefit from multi-age classrooms. The Montessori environment fosters exploration and pursuit of interests, allowing every child to progress at their own pace.
The Brunswick School
The Brunswick Preschool Program is designed for children who have turned three. Teacher-guided and student-centered classroom activities include creative art, music, movement, math and literacy, to name a few. Teachers encourage preschoolers to be active participants, ask questions and make discoveries. At the Brunswick Preschool, students learn spatial reasoning, self-help, communication and problem-solving through play, in a fun, engaging environment.
Smart Start Academy
These Jersey City preschools also put emphasis on learning through exploration and movement rather than just sitting in a desk and listening. Academic, emotional, physical and social development are equally important. Children are introduced to subjects like math, language and science with age-appropriate materials. Furthermore, respect, compromising and problem-solving are among the main educational goals.
Viaquenti Preschool
This preschool is located in Downtown Jersey City and welcomes children from 3 months of age to 2nd Grade. Viaquenti preschool offers a bilingual education in both English and Spanish, as well as a low teacher to student ratio. Preschoolers get familiar with early literacy, art, music, science, math, dramatic play and more. Teachers prepare themed lessons that gradually become more challenging as the end of the year approaches.
The Garden Preschool Cooperative
In this parent-run nonprofit preschool, parents play a major role in their children’s education. They participate in making the curriculum that changes every year, assist in the classroom and offer guidance to teachers. This Jersey City preschool believes children’s curiosity is the driving force of the learning process. Learning by play is not only allowed but also encouraged. Also, creative thinking, perseverance, kindness and confidence are among the highly valued qualities.
Stevens Cooperative School
Its intellectually stimulating curriculum and supportive learning community make Stevens Cooperative one of the best preschools in Jersey City. This innovative school promotes confidence, independence, creative thinking and communication. Besides, every student is an active participant whose opinions matter. Furthermore, the focus is on developing work habits, organizational skills and emotional intelligence.
