Moving can be a stressful process, especially for kids. They’ll be more likely to embrace the idea of moving if they are involved in the process. Here are some tips that will help your kids before, during and after the relocation process.
- Talk to your kids and explain about the upcoming move. Pay attention to their reactions and let them ask questions.
- Include your kids in making plans for the move. For example, take them house hunting with you.
- Help your kids learn about the new area.
- Let them help decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.
- Encourage kids to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.
- Have each child help pack a special box with his or her most treasured possessions—they can even decorate the outside of the box so they can quickly identify it in your new home.
- Take a “family break” as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don’t try to do everything when you arrive.
- Parents should spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.
- Enroll each child in activities similar to those he or she was involved with at the old home to keep continuity.
- Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your kids to school the first few days may ease tension.
- Any lingering abnormalities (loss of appetite, insomnia, etc.) should be reported to a doctor.
- If your move involves suburban to rural, or vice versa, caution kids about new situations they will face.
For more information about easing the transition to your new home, visit Wheaton World Wide Moving’s Web site.
