Are you planning on moving with the kids? Read below for a moving survival guide for parents to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Transparency
It is important to explain to your kids where you are moving, when you are moving, why you are moving, and who you are moving with. Clearly communicate to them when the move is happening, such as at the end of the school year or 20 “nights of sleep” away. Put it in a way that your children will understand.
Additionally, let them know where you are moving and provide pictures, too, so they can get excited and become familiar with the area. Furthermore, let your kids know why you are moving. Is it for a new job? Inform your kids what you will be doing and how this will be a positive thing for your family. Additionally, include some exciting details about your move! Does your new house have a fun feature? Is there a park that they would love nearby?
Lastly, make it clear who is moving. Is it your whole household? Just Mom or Dad? And reassure them that their toys, stuffed animals, and pets will be moving, too! Get them excited and let them know you are thinking about them, answering their questions, and are on top of ways to help them settle into a new place.
Get Your Kids Involved
Getting your kids involved will help them feel like they are making decisions and will help them feel prepared for the move. So, you can have your kids create a moving checklist, have them pack their rooms, help you narrow your search for a house, and even shop for new home decor. All of this will help your kids feel included and comfortable and make the new home feel like their space.
Check-in On Their Feelings
Next, be sure to set aside time once in a while to chat about how your kids are doing. Whether you are blending families or changing the dynamic, it is important to check in during this transition and beyond to ensure everyone is adjusting well. Additionally, your children will feel safe and trusted knowing that you value their feelings and want to listen and do what you can to make them feel comfortable and adjusted to these new changes.
Make Their Rooms a Priority
When moving with kids, follow the last and first rule. This means when you are moving, pack up their rooms last and unpack them first when arriving at your new location. This will ensure that they get to spend as much time as they can in their old room and have plenty of time to get settled into their new space. The more time your kids have in both spaces the more comfortable they will feel.
Connect With Other Families
Connect with families and join parent groups located in your new town. This is an easy way to meet new friends for you and your kids. Having relationships and friendly faces is essential to settling in and making your new area feel like home.
Plan Visits Back
Instead of “goodbye” say “see you soon”! You can plan visits to your old town and old friends around holidays, birthdays, or summer vacations. This will give your kids something to look forward to and soothe stress. Additionally, encourage your kids to stay in touch with their friends through phone calls, texts, emails, or even good old-fashioned letters. Nurturing connections will help make your move go more smoothly.
Follow the tips above when moving with kids!
