Guidance for Parents During a Relocation

Moving to a new house, especially in a different town, can be a stressful experience for both parents and their children. The impact on little ones who may struggle to understand and accept the change can be significant, and teenagers, in particular, may act out, leading to challenges at home and in school. For parents, this means not only handling the logistics of the move but also taking on the task of helping their children prepare emotionally. Here are some tips to assist parents in preparing their kids for a move.

First and foremost, open communication is crucial when it comes to an upcoming move. Keeping the news a secret until the last moment can backfire, so it’s recommended to share the news early. This provides ample time for adjustment, questions, and addressing any fears well before moving day.

Even with very young children, it’s essential to convey that a significant change is on the horizon, using age-appropriate language to explain the reasons behind it. If children react negatively, such as feeling afraid, nervous, or angry, it’s important for parents to validate these emotions, showing empathy and creating a safe space for them to express themselves. Providing a sense of predictability and security by outlining when certain changes can be expected is also helpful.

Once this initial hurdle is crossed, involving youngsters in the moving process is recommended to the best of their abilities. Toddlers can participate by choosing which toys should stay with them and which ones will go in the moving truck. Older kids can take on more significant responsibilities, such as helping to donate old items or managing the to-do list and checking off tasks along the way.

Maintaining the same routine to which the children are accustomed is equally important. Sports activities, piano lessons, and club meetings should continue as scheduled until the last week before the move. Balancing this consistency with the preparation for change can be challenging, and parents should seek support and resources to maintain a calm and collected demeanor, even during challenging times.

Consider organizing a moving away party, particularly for school-age children. This allows them to bid farewell to friends and helps parents gather contact information for future correspondence. Similarly, visiting their favorite places around town one last time can create lasting memories. Taking plenty of pictures during these farewell visits allows children to look back fondly as they embrace new friendships, explore new places, and gradually feel more at home in the new house.

For additional insights and advice on preparing your kids for a move, refer to the accompanying resource by Dearman Moving and Storage.