You’ve sold your home and purchased a new one. Everything about this move is exciting to you. Perhaps you’re relocating for a new job or more room, a new neighborhood to explore and even better schools for your children. While all of these are positive steps and something to look forward to, these same situations may cause some anxiety as well as excitement for your kids.
Children may exhibit different behaviors in response to a move or change in schools. For example, children might show stress by saying their bodies hurt, that they have headaches or their tummies are sore, or by reverting to baby talk. There can also be nonverbal signs, like thumb sucking, bed wetting or becoming extra clingy.
Establishing some systems and routines before, during and after a move can help kids and parents reduce anxiety and better handle the situation.
Here are some tips for assisting kids to adjust to a move:
To the extent that it’s possible, involve your child as much as you can in the family discussions leading up to a move. Be sure they understand the reason for the move. Bring them with you during walkthroughs or if this isn’t possible show them photos on Google Earth.
Allow them to bring a memento from their old home to the new one. A special rock from the garden or their bedroom doorknob could work wonders in making them feel like they will not forget their old home.
Moving Day is usually stressful for both parents and kids. If your child is prone to meltdowns, go ahead and schedule in some time for this to happen. That way when/if it does, you’ll have time to be there for them instead of moving things allow too quickly.
It’s a good idea to have one parent in charge of the children while the other orchestrates the move. In one parent homes calling in a relative or close friend can be very helpful.
Once you arrive, allow your child (ren) to have some control. Have them unpack the first box in their new room or have them decide what or where the first meal will be.
Focus on the positives of the new home (a new playroom, a bigger yard, close to the park).
Allow them to connect with the people the love such as old neighbors or friends as soon as possible. Just a phone call to talk about the move or scheduling a visit will make them feel that all is not lost in the move.
