Moving to a new home is a big change. However, as hard as it is to you, it is probably harder for your children. Leaving their friends and school can bring up anxiety, sadness, and even fear in them. The best way to reduce these feelings when moving with kids is to know what is causing them. This list will help you identify common problems and give proven solutions.
Talk to them about the decision
Whatever age your kids are, they should know about the decision to move as soon as possible. They will want to say goodbye to their friends and school mates. Set aside a time when you are free to answer all of their questions. This will make the transition into a new home much easier.
Also, moving with kids means including them in the process. You might be tempted to send them off to friends or family. However, it can significantly help with their adjustment if you let them be a part of the event. Let them pack their favorite toys in a box that they decorate themselves. When you move, they will easily be able to find their toys among other boxes.
Communication with your kids is key to a stress-free move.
Moreover, let them make a small decision about the new home. For example, let them choose the carpets in their rooms. That way, they will feel like they contributed to the move, and will be able to enjoy it more.
Explore the new neighborhood
One way to soothe your child’s anxiety about the move is to familiarize them with the new neighborhood. If you are moving relatively close, take your kids for a walk around. Let them see all the fun things that await them. Show them the school they will be attending and the playground where they will meet new friends. Furthermore, go into your new house if possible.
Allow them to choose their own room and design it in their heads. Visualization is an important part of coping with the move.
On the other hand, if you are moving with kids long-distance, try to do research on the new neighborhood together. Look at pictures online and find the places you will visit. Moreover, let them find stores and venues they would enjoy.
Find a suitable moving company for moving with kids
While your children can and should take part in the process, they also need to keep busy at times. This will allow you to sort through your things and pack undistracted. There are companies which offer to pay for babysitting while they pack or move your house. Others might offer some interactive ways for your child to stay happy and busy. These include coloring books, pens, pencils, and other drawing supplies. These are extra services and come at an added cost, but you will be grateful for the time you are given.
Keeping your kids distracted during the move is the key.
When hiring a moving company, make sure to do research about them. Compare offered services and prices to get the best deal. A reputable company, such as Infinity Movers Inc., is worth the time and the effort.
Have a farewell party
Your child most likely has fears about leaving behind their home and friends. A goodbye party is a good way for them to wrap up their memories and have closure. Invite your friends and neighbors to properly leave your home behind. A good tip is to print pictures of your kids with their friends for you to keep as well as to hand out. Also, take pictures at the party. That way, your children will understand that they won’t forget or be forgotten. Furthermore, try organizing a house warming party in your new home. This is a great way to help your kids acclimate and meet new friends.
Packing a bag for the move
Help your kids realize that it might take some time to unpack each box in the new home. Let them know that they most likely won’t have access to all their toys and furniture right away. Instead, help them pack a bag of their favorite things, which they want to keep close. Additionally, you will want to pack a separate bag with food and supplies for the trip. If you have very small children, don’t forget to pack diapers, wet wipes, formula, pacifiers, and other baby necessities. For older kids, these include snacks, games, and books or comic books. It is important to keep them fed and occupied during the drive.
When you arrive at the new home
The first thing you will want to unpack in your new home are your kids’ bedrooms. With all the stress of moving and rushing, they want to feel comfortable. This will also help them accept the new home as soon as possible. Furthermore, if they are distracted by their toys and gadgets, you will have the time to unpack. From then, you will want to set up the kitchen. It is essential that you feed yourself and your kids healthy meals during this process.
Getting used to the new home
One of the biggest stress and anxiety inducers in young kids is change. Of course, when it comes to moving, change is unavoidable. However, when moving with kids, there are things you can do to reduce this. Change can be minimized by keeping their bedroom set up the same way. Also, stick to any routines or regular customs that you have established. For example, Friday night family dinner or Tuesday game night. These things will help your child ease into the change.
Old traditions should be introduced in the new home.
Moreover, try to do something special on your first night in the new home. Take time to do the things you enjoy, such as playing a board game or cooking together. Make it feel less like a house and more like a home. Your kids will soon realize that this is a place where new memories will be made.
A new leaf for you and your kids
Everything is done. You have cleaned up the new place, unpacked all the boxes, and set up every room. What now? This is the part of moving with kids you have been looking forward to. This is where you enjoy your new home and start a new life. Remember, however stressful the process is, this is the right move for you. Your kids will soon start to see all the goods things about this decision.
