Midyear move may be easier on the kids

Re “Moving? Don’t Expect the Kids to Thank You” [Feb. 3]:

I changed houses and usually schools every two years during my elementary and secondary school career. I’d like to disagree with child psychology expert Lindsey Bergman, who suggested that moves be scheduled during the summer.

Moving as soon as school is out leaves children with three friendless, boring months or throws them in with whoever happens to live nearby -- not necessarily those with whom they have most in common.

The kids will protest a midyear move; ignore them unless a high school graduation is at stake. They’ll thank you later.

Mary Miller

Los Angeles

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My family’s experience belies the prevailing wisdom that if the move entails a change in schools, it should be done during the summer.

Our family moved cross-country in late spring 1986. Our sons, who were 8 and 11, were able to start school immediately and get right into the swing of things.

Had we waited until after the school year ended, they both would have spent the entire summer not knowing anyone their age and being anxious about what their new school would be like.

Marilyn Padow

Chatsworth