How to Move House with Kids
Relocating is a trying experience for adults, and it can be equally stressful for children as well. They have created their own little world and become familiar with it. And with moving, the worry of missing their friends, school, toys and sometimes even pets may arise.
Planning the move and informing your children about it is probably the hardest part in the moving process. And when children are well into adolescence, they aren't going to be too thrilled about it; some might even rebel. However, you need to remember one basic aspect - If you worry about relocating and act as if the entire thought is draining you, the same feeling would be instantly transferred to the child as well. So if you want your children to accept relocation, then you must have the right attitude first.
Preparing children emotionally for relocation is probably the first step because the earlier they are prepared, the smoother the process will be. It is important to sit with them and talk about moving and how important it is. Whether it's for a promotion or a new job with better prospects, you can help them understand.
Some children may require professional counseling while most of them would be content to listen to their parent's reasoning. The trick is to follow the same routines, have their old toys and pets (of course, if it is possible) at the new place as well; this would render familiarity during the changing phase. Answer all their questions truthfully when you discuss the move with them. If it is possible to meet their old friends over the weekends or on holidays, offer to arrange this for them.
Making the Transition Easy for Kids
Kids must be involved in the moving process and depending on their age, you can let them know the details of the progress of relocation. Additionally, you can do the following:
• Keep the explanations simple and to the point; no going around in circles.
• When the toys and dolls are packed in boxes, let the children label them so they know they will see it again at the new house.
• If the new place happens to be nearby, take them along for a visit so they would be familiar with the house and surroundings. The child might even make a new friend on his first visit.
• Take along all those comfort furniture/pillows that your child holds on to.
• Listen attentively to all the concerns your child have.
• When you have a teen, it is a different story altogether because she/he might have a local social group, romantic relationship and so on.
• If you have school going children, make the move during their summer holidays, it would be easier for them that way.
• Your child might be apprehensive about the new school, so take him along to meet his new teachers.
Children will need time to adjust to the new surroundings because it is a huge change for them as well as for you... so give them time to cope!