Preparing Your Child for a Big Move

Moving is a really big deal to children. There are some parents who don’t think much about picking up and moving their family. And even though your children might seem like they’re fine and happy with the move, they could be hiding a great deal of nervousness inside.

If you’re getting ready to move, it’s always good to help them feel as comfortable with the transition as possible. Based on personal experience of having moved my two young children two states away a couple of years ago, here are some tips that might help you:

Talk about moving. Children like to express their concerns or fears. Talk with them and get them to open up about their feelings. Ask them questions like:

· How do you feel about moving?

· What will be the most fun thing about moving?

· How can I make you feel better about moving?

Put them at ease. Most kids see moving as an exciting adventure. They get a new room in their new house. But the biggest fear on a child’s mind about moving is almost always leaving behind their friends (if you’re moving far away). Talk to them about making new friends as well as staying in touch with their old friends. Help them exchange addresses and telephone numbers with their friends.

Conduct research together. Almost every family today has access to the Internet. Why not utilize that technology before you move? Get together as a family and do some research on the new city you’re moving to. Find out what kinds of fun things there are to do together as a family. Look up the new school your kids will attend. Get directions to the local public library. Just the simple process of gathering this sort of information will help your children to explore their new town before they move and get a sense of community ahead of time.

Meet your neighbors. As soon as you are moved, be sure to get out with your children and meet your neighbors. Bake cookies or brownies and walk around and meet everyone. Plan a neighborhood block party if you’re feeling really happy and invite everyone to it. Help your children find other kids their age to play with.

Moving can be a scary, but fun experience for your children. Just remember to be thoughtful and aware of their feelings during your transition and everything should go well!