5 Tips For Moving With Kids
The very idea of moving typically produces a variety of reactions and emotions, especially for younger members of the family. If you are considering a move and have children, you will want to consider their feelings and expectations well before you head to your new location. Here are 5 strategies that will hopefully reduce their anxiety and yours.
1. Involve Them In the Discussion
1. Involve Them In the Discussion
After you have made the final decision and moving to a new home is a definite "go", begin discussing the prospect with your children. Whether you are moving across town, or across the country, make them aware of what is in the works. Your children's ages will determine how in-depth you want to discuss the "whys" of the move. The bottom line is that they should be encouraged to see the positives and it is your job as a parent to guide them in this direction. If they sense that you are disgruntled or less than happy about relocating, it will likely increase their fear and concern, so put a smile on your face and look for the silver lining!
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings
No matter what their age, moving can be tough for kids. It is important that you allow them to process the information and then express their thoughts and feelings. Very young children might be concerned about whether their toys and pets will be coming along. They may have questions about what their room will be like, where they'll be able to play on the swings, and whether grandma and Santa Claus will be able to find the new house.
For older children, the thought of moving away from close friends can be a devastating prospect. Anger, frustration, hostility, sadness, and anxiety are typical reactions. During this time, keep your line of communication with your child open, and then listen, discuss, and acknowledge their feelings. Let them know that you may be experiencing similar feelings and that you are all in this together. Hopefully by the time the boxes are on the moving van they will see relocating as an exciting opportunity.
3. Allow The Kids To Be Part Of The Process
Whether you are still house hunting or finalizing the details of your relocation plan, involve the kids whenever possible. Listen to their opinions on prospective new homes, and when you have made your final decision, discuss things with them such as, what to toss and what to keep, decorating ideas for their rooms, or their ideas on how a bonus room or garage could best be used. If you are making a significant move, check out your new town online with your kids. Find fun things to do, events to attend, and new restaurants to try out. Let each of the kids plan the itinerary for a Saturday soon after you arrive to get them excited about exploring the area.
4. So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Goodbye!
Plan several special activities, which will allow your kids to say goodbye to friends, family, neighbors, and teachers they will leave behind. Provide them with an address book so they can gather everyone's information and e-mail addresses. The idea is not to heighten their sadness, but to give them an opportunity to see people they care about and properly say goodbye. Also consider that your child may have a special place they'd like to visit one more time. Discuss the idea with them and you may be surprised when they express a desire to visit a particular museum, park, restaurant, or store one more time.
5. Get Settled
When you arrive at your new address, encourage your children to get to know their new neighborhood. Do your best to meet the neighbors, plan walks, bike rides, and outings at least once a week. Look online, in the newspaper, or in community magazines for local event calendars. Remember that address book? Sometime during your first month in your new home would be a good time to have the kids connect with their old friends with a postcard or an e-mail.
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