Surely you have thought about how your children will adapt to their new life, to their new school, to new classmates and new habits. Even a new language. The truth is that in a process of change and relocation, the first concern is to get the family to settle down as soon as possible, especially the children.
—Because once the children have their routines, 50% of the installation is done —says Paloma.
—Or 80% -adds Almudena as positive as ever.
—Yeah, sure! then all that’s left is for them to adapt well, to like school, to make friends, to find activities that fit them …
—But you’re overreacting.
—Well, you’re right that it’s the beginning of the right path — concedes Palo.
—And fundamental to have time to devote to other topics also necessary —concludes Almu.
Yes. Children are going to take away most of your energy, trying not to let them notice too much all the changes, not to be affected by it and to carry out the whole process in a natural way, and even enjoying the novelties will be the parents’ mission during the first moments.
—That’s easy to say.
—Agree! But not so much to carry out.
—I believe that having information is key to success.
—Yeah, knowing what you’re going to find.
—So you can be prepared and avoid surprises.
—Although you can be sure that you’ll be catch by unexpected events.
For this and other reasons you are interested in what your children will do when they leave school at 5pm. Depending on the country you come from, you may think it’s time to go home, rest and have dinner. But the truth is that in Madrid, afternoons after school are a busy time.
It is very common for children to attend after-school activities, at the same school or at a different centre. Of course, they’re optional.
—Soccer is a classic.
—And ballet.
—Any language, from French to Cantonese.
—Any less common sports or any music specialization.
—And many of these have their corresponding competitions/shows on Saturdays or Sundays.
—Conveniently, usually first thing in the morning.
On the other hand, and depending on age, there are birthday parties and invitations to friends’ houses. Both on a more social than educational level but for newly relocated is as important. Depending on age, these social activities are reserved only for WE, although the younger ones may have an important social agenda even from Monday to Friday.
Don’t forget homework, students should reserve daily time for homework. This will vary from a few minutes to a couple of hours depending on the child’s age, school and performance during school hours.
And of course, rest time without organized tasks for both children and parents is essential.
It seems impossible to reach everything, but the truth is that even though most of the times, it looks like a miracle, it just happens. The sooner you have the info, the sooner you’ll organize yourself and prepare your children for their new life.
In case you are planning to move to Madrid shortly, you will find all the relevant information in The secret of relocating to Madrid. If, in addition, you need help with the organization or, even if you want us to accompany you, check out our services.
In the meantime, you can receive regular information by filling out this questionnaire. And if you find it useful, we appreciate your sharing.
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