29 Mar How To Prepare Your Children For A Move
Moving to a new home can be a bittersweet experience. You may be excited for a fresh start, but at the same time feel sad about leaving your friends and old neighborhood behind. It can be especially tough on kids. Even though you probably have a long to-do list of moving tasks to complete, make sure you take the time to properly prepare your children for the move as well. Here are a few tips to help ease some of the worry your kids may feel as they get ready to move to their new home.
KEEP THEM IN THE LOOP
Discuss the move with your children as early as possible. This gives them time to emotionally prepare. Making sure they understand the details of the move is important because it helps them feel involved. For younger kids especially, remind them of the move regularly and reassure them that their favorite belongings will be coming with them. Also be prepared for the fact that they may be sad or upset. Let them feel this way – it is only temporary. A lot of children have a hard time accepting a move at first, but being there to support them and answer any questions they may have can make a big difference.
PACK AN ESSENTIALS BOX
As you begin to pack or hire a moving company to pack for you, help your children make a list of essential belongings they will need. This includes anything they will need up until move day, as well as anything they will want the first night in their new home. If they have a favorite toy or pair of pajamas, add those to their essentials box. This will ensure that even if you don’t get unpacked right away, they will still have access to some of their favorite things.
HELP THEM GET INVOLVED
Take some time to research extracurricular activities that are available around your new home. Signing your child up for an activity or team will give them something to look forward to. It can also be a great opportunity for them to meet new friends. Encouraging them to get involved can help maintain a sense of normalcy as well. Although they may be in a different place, continuing to participate in activities they enjoy can make the transition easier.
STICK TO A SCHEDULE
Maintaining a routine is important for your kids as soon as you get to your new home. Try to stick to regular mealtimes and bedtimes if possible. Younger kids especially, do well with predictability, so get this established sooner rather than later. Also do your best to keep up with any family rituals. Did you always order pizza on Friday nights at your old home? Did you have a family game night once a week? Continuing these traditions at your new home can help children feel at ease and can make the experience more positive overall.
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