New School New State

[Sy5636]

Hello. My 8yo 3rd grader just moved to a new state from IL to CA. He has ADHD and ODD. Right now he is wanting to make friends and is having trouble making new friends. Have been giving him advice that it s anew school it will take time to adjust and make friends. Any advice on helping him deal with this anxiety or other encouraging words to give? Any advice period or anyone would like to share if they were in the same situation with moving to a new school or different state? Thank You

[Crunchby]

Ugh, it's so hard to switch schools especially when your kiddo isn't the greatest with social skills. We moved states when she was in 4th. It's funny, she will make a fast friend then lose them bc of her, well her being her. I think they run bc she can be super loud and over reacts to everything. Eventually they will get in a fight and she goes for the juglar vein. She just started Jr high, so she looked forward to a 'fresh start' her words. A chance to make friends with kids who don't already have her in a box. So, maybe that's the silver lining. He can reinvent himself a bit, assuming he had issues at his last school making/cementing friends? I bought two great books, that maybe when he's not being his lovable ODD self, you could share some points with him. First one is "growing Friendships" by Eileen Kennedy-Moore. Shoot, can't find the v other one now. I'd also talk to the counselor, see if they have any lunch bunch or social skills clubs. A good school counselor can be a god send at times like these. Hugs

[anirush]

Really tough. Change is hard for these kids to take. My oldest grandson just started high school and told me he did not want to be thought of as the shy kid this year. But it is hard to change personality. A behavior therapist is helping him with his anxiety which keeps him from responding well to people.