Most adults could already tell you that moving is very stressful. The packing, the logistics, the work arrangements – it all piles up both before and after moving day itself. However, in all the runaround, it is sometimes easy to overlook how difficult moving might be for your kids.
Here is a list of a few things you can do to help make your moving process easier and less intimidating for the little ones in your life.
Have a Family Meeting
If you have not yet broken the news about the move, it is probably best to do it at a time when the entire family is present, and in a relaxed atmosphere. You can do this at the dinner table, in the living room, or anywhere else that you are prepared to listen to what the kids have to say.
Go for a New Home Visit
If possible, bring the kids to see your new home. This can often happen during a walk-through or inspection. Make sure that you allow plenty of time, as kids generally want to do some serious exploring of their new digs.
If you are moving a long distance, and are therefore not able to make an additional visit, show the kids as many pictures or video walk-throughs as you can. The more they see their new house ahead of time, the more comfortable they will be.
Come Up With a Room Plan
Once the idea of a new home begins sinking in, the first thing kids want to know is usually “which one is my room?” Involve your kids in planning out their new rooms. As you pack up the kids belongings for the local movers, make a big show of writing your child’s name on the boxes. This helps build excitement about their brand-new room, as they plan it out.
Host a Going Away Party
Kids love routine and structure, and nothing shakes up either one quite like moving away. One of the sturdiest foundations of any child’s life are the people surrounding them, so leaving good friends and neighbors behind can be very tough for the little ones.
Host a going away party so that your kids can see the special people in their life one more time before setting out on their new adventure. The party does not have to be a huge or fancy affair, it just has to include the people your children will miss the most. During the party, make plans to stay in touch. Get Skype names or mailing addresses, and write them down on lists so that your kids can bring them to the new place, and can reach out any time there feeling a bit homesick
Arrange for Some Time Off (But Not Too Much!)
Depending on how big an undertaking moving day will be, it may be appropriate to schedule some time off from school for your little ones. It is not unreasonable to think that kids may need an extra day to get used to the house, before they then go off and get use to a brand-new school as well.
However, routine is best for kids. Taking a small breather is a great idea, but getting them into their new school so that they can begin meeting new friends is also a priority
As your family becomes explorers in your new town, you might find that your kids are warming up to their surroundings quicker than you thought. The best thing to do is to help kids feel included in this huge event.
Author Bio
Niv Orlian is an online marketer and the Co-Founder of DO Online Marketing, a Chicago based company that helps local businesses such as Golan’s Moving & Storage, acquire, manage, and retain local customers online