Moving is difficult no matter what, but relocating an entire family can seem like an impossible task. Moving affects the entire family. There is added stress for couples but is also hard on children. Going to a new house, especially if it’s in a new town, can be scary for children. However, you can ease the transition by letting your child participate in the moving process. Children gain greater control over their fears and anxieties by directly participating in moving-related activities. Use the following tips to make moving fun for your kids!
Talk about the move. Make sure your kids understand when, where, and why you are moving. Every family member will react to the move in a different way. It is important for the family to be able to discuss any feelings they may have about the move.
Take your child with you to look at potential neighborhoods, houses, and schools.
Share the information packets you get from real estate agents or the Chamber of Commerce.
Use a map to help your child understand the new area and the route you will take to get there.
Have your children draw a picture of how they will arrange their new room.
Try to keep everything as normal as possible. Any major breaks in routine can increase your child’s anxiety.
Have a positive attitude. Staying as calm and relaxed as possible will go a long way. Your child will learn how to handle the changes by watching how you handle it. The calmer you are, the calmer they are. You can reduce a lot of stress with a little bit of planning and preparation.
Have a game plan. Plan out the details of the moving process and set deadlines. Create a packing schedule. The more organized you are the smoother things will go on moving day.
Plan your packing room by room. Focus on packing rooms that the children don’t use as much first, saving the kids rooms for last. Packing their rooms last will help protect them from some of the chaos.
Let the kids help you pack. Make moving fun by letting your kids pack their own toys, clothes, books, etc.
You can even let them decorate their boxes with stickers and markers. This will allow them to feel like they play a part in the move.
Pack a box of “personal essentials.” You’ll want to set aside a box of essentials like toilet paper, tissues, paper towels, and other items you’ll need when you first move in. This will save you from having to dig through boxes when you need these things in a hurry.
Label everything! Label each box with as much detail as possible. Unpacking will go a lot faster if you know what is in each box.
Pack a “safe suitcase” for the road. Saying goodbye to their home and neighborhood can be very hard for a child. Packing a bag for your child with a favorite toy, car activities, fun snacks, and so on can help distract him or her from being sad or nervous.
Explore the new neighborhood. Whether it is before the move or after, it is important to familiarize your family with the new area.
Have a camp out in your new home. Once you arrive at your new home, things will most likely be a little chaotic. Make the first night fun by letting your kids camp out in the living room.
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