How Long Can Kids Be Out of School During a Move?

Relocating is a major event for any family, particularly when school-age children are involved. Many parents wonder how long their kids can realistically stay out of school during a move without significantly impacting their education.

At iHaul iMove, we’ve helped thousands of families navigate moves with children. Here’s what you need to know about school absences during relocation.

Typical Timeframes for Missing School

Generally, most schools allow short absences due to relocation:

• 3-5 days: Typical for local moves
• 1-2 weeks: Common for long-distance moves
• Beyond 2 weeks: May require special approval or documentation

The key is communication. Schools are generally understanding about moves, but they need advance notice and documentation.

State Regulations and Attendance Requirements

Each state and school district has its own attendance policies. In Colorado:

• Unexcused absence limits typically range from 5-10 school days
• Excused absences for relocation usually require documentation
• Chronic absenteeism (missing 10%+ of school days) triggers additional scrutiny

What to Do:

1. Notify your child’s current school about your move as early as possible
2. Check specific requirements with your new school district
3. Document your move clearly to justify absences if needed
4. Request schoolwork in advance so children can continue learning during transition

Minimizing the Educational Impact

Even short-term absences can disrupt a child’s learning. Here’s how to minimize the impact:

Strategic Timing

• Schedule moves around weekends or school holidays when possible
• Consider natural breaks: Winter break, spring break, or end of school year
• End of grading period transitions are easier than mid-term

Academic Continuity

• Coordinate with teachers to obtain assignments in advance
• Engage in educational activities during transition periods
• Use online learning platforms like Khan Academy or IXL to stay on track
• Reading time during the move keeps kids engaged

Hire Professional Movers

Professional movers complete moves faster. What takes a DIY mover a week, iHaul iMove often completes in 1-2 days. Faster moves mean fewer missed school days.

Smooth Transition Tips for School-Aged Children

Helping children adjust quickly improves both their academic performance and emotional well-being:

Before the Move

• Visit the new school before officially starting if possible
• Encourage open communication about their feelings regarding the move
• Research the new school together—extracurriculars, sports, clubs
• Connect with new classmates through school social media groups

During the Move

• Maintain familiar routines as much as possible
• Keep comfort items accessible during transport
• Involve kids in age-appropriate moving tasks

After the Move

• Establish new routines quickly for homework, bedtime, and meals
• Encourage extracurricular participation to help make friends
• Stay connected with friends from the old school via video calls
• Check in regularly about how they’re adjusting

Colorado School Districts We Serve

iHaul iMove helps families move throughout the Pikes Peak region, serving school districts including:

• District 11 (Colorado Springs)
• District 20 (Academy)
• District 38 (Lewis-Palmer/Monument)
• Fountain-Fort Carson D8
• Widefield D3
• Woodland Park RE-2

We understand local school calendars and can help you plan your move timing accordingly.

Key Takeaways

• Brief absences (3-10 days) for moving are typically acceptable
• Proactive communication with schools is essential
• Strategic planning around school calendars helps
• Professional movers reduce downtime significantly
• Documentation of your move may be required

Get Your Family Moving Estimate

Planning your move soon? Contact iHaul iMove at 719-357-5865 to discover how our experienced team can streamline your relocation and minimize disruption for your family.

iHaul iMove has been helping Colorado families move for over 17 years. We understand the challenges of moving with children and are committed to making your transition as smooth as possible. Explore our service areas or learn more about our residential moving services.