Tips for Comfortably Moving Your Younger Family Members
More often than not the whole family is excited for a move into a new house. However, if your kids are at a particular age and perhaps the move involves some less desirable things like a new school district, having to make new friends, or the like, you may need to ease the situation. Here are some helpful tips on how to make the move easier for them.
Acknowledge their emotions
Even if your move is something you are excited about, it can still be stressful. Especially for children, are not the ones in control so it will be normal for them to experience some anxiety at times. The best thing you can do is acknowledge their feelings and talk to them. Keep them involved in the plans so they know what is happening.
Favorites bag
All kids have their favorite items like blankets, stuffed animals, clothes, or toys. Keep their favorite items in a designated bag so that they can have them nearby in the car for comfort as opposed to packed away in a moving truck.
Closure
During the last days before you depart, make a list of places to go and visit with them. This can be a list of the “lasts” as in last time visiting the local playground, park, or favorite nearby restaurant.
Fun moving day
While you want the kids to have seen the new home, on your actual moving day consider having them stay with family friends or relatives. If not, try getting their help with some simple or fun chores like labeling boxes with markers or giving them some easy cleaning tasks.
Unpack their rooms first
Setting up your kid’s rooms first will have them quickly comforted. Also, involve them in the unpacking process so they know where everything is within their own space.
Encourage their help
When you are selecting paint colors, window treatments or new furniture involve your kids in that process. Make it fun for them and give them a sense of ownership over their new room.
Resume your routine
Once you are settled get back into your usual routine. This includes doing regular nap times, dinner times or even resuming your regular bedtime stories. The familiarity of these activities will make the new house quickly feel like home.
Explore the neighborhood
Make a list of fun things to see in the new neighborhood. It could include a nearby park, library, or ice cream shop. Taking a walk in your new neighborhood will get your kids familiar with what is close by and can give you an opportunity to meet neighbors who may also have children.
Set the tone
Ultimately your kids will pick up on the vibe that you have. The more you are positive, relaxed, and happy during the moving process, the more they will be too.
