Moving is something that most of us will experience at least once in our lives, and it is one of the most stressful life events. Unfortunately, moving has a more significant impact on children rather than adults. If you are planning a long-distance move with children, it is important to take the right steps to ensure they are adjusting properly to their new environment. Check out our five tips on how to help your child adjust during the moving process!
- Focus on the Positive: Children tend to focus on all the negative aspects of a move such as leaving their home, going to a new school, not seeing their friends/teammates, etc. It is important to remind them of all the positive things that come with moving to a new place. Focus on new opportunities such as: making new friends, getting involved in new activities, playing on a new (maybe even better) sports team. There is a lot to experience in a new place, so it is important to get kids excited about the possibilities.
- Take your Child to your New Community: Familiarize your children with the new community by taking a special trip to show them around the area. Drive around town and look at all your new town has to offer. Get the children excited about new places to visit such as restaurants, museums, arcades, etc. Remind them that you are also excited to live in this new place and experience all it has to offer.
- Get the Kids Involved: It is important to make sure your child’s voice is heard throughout the entire move process. Keep an open line of communication with them, and be sure to check-in and ask how they are feeling about the move every once in a while. Involve them throughout the entire process by letting them house hunt with you, help pack, pick out paint colors for their new bedroom, etc.
- Keep in Touch: Encourage your children to keep in touch with their old friends via email and phone calls. To help them say goodbye, host a going away party for your child and their friends, and take photographs and keepsakes with you to help your children remember them.
- Get Involved in the New Community: It is important for children to be social, especially when transitioning into a new school. Introduce them to new kids in the neighborhood, encourage play dates, sign them up for sports or local activities. Visit your local community center, YMCA, or Boys’ and Girls’ Club to find out what activities you can get your child into.
It is important to keep your child’s interest in mind when moving to ensure that they have an easy transition into your new home. For more tips on moving with children visit us or contact us to schedule your free in-home estimate!
