Are you prepared?

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Mariah Tolbert
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  There are many challenges military families face throughout the years and one of the more stressful situations Airmen and their families face is a permanent change of station move.

As summer approaches, many Airmen and families here prepare to PCS to another duty station, which can be an emotional and physical challenge for the entire family.

Moving with children can make a PCS even more challenging because schools or daycares have to be found, and family members must come out of their comfort zones to make new friends.

"For children, moving often means leaving behind the security of their school and friends, which can be stressful," said Sherry Kindlesparker, 4th Force Support Squadron community readiness consultant. "Children react to the news that they're moving in different ways. Parents need to be aware of how this affects their children and need to be able to recognize the anxieties they are experiencing."

On top of preparing a child for the move, parents have to be proactive and find a new school.

According to Robert Freeman, 4th Mission Support Group school liaison officer, there is a "Transitioning to a new school," checklist that families are recommended to follow, prior to moving. Some of the items on the list include:
  • Contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center relocation program, for information regarding the gaining installation and surrounding communities.
  • Contact the housing office at the gaining installation to determine the waiting period for on-base quarters if planning to live on base. When looking for a home keep in mind it's location, this may determine the school your child will attend.
  • Check the new school calendar for start and end dates.
  • Check to see what the area's process of transferring of records, school eligibility requirements and subsequent placement of the students.
  • If you have a child of high school age, request information on the gaining state's high school graduation requirements. Give the losing school adequate notice of withdrawal.

On top of preparing for a new school there are many things a parent can do to get their child ready. Many schools offer a new kids program, a youth sponsor or pen pal who the child can communicate with prior to arrival. Also, parents can visit the A&FRC or Military OneSource to help identify the steps they need to take to choose a school and prepare the child for the move.

"The A&FRC stands ready to assist parents in any way possible," said Kindlesparker, native of Glade Springs, Va.

For more information, contact the A&FRC at 919-722-1123, visit www.militaryonesource.com or www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil.


(Editor's note: This is part one of a two part series)