Moving can be a challenging experience for anyone, but when you have children, it adds another layer of complexity. Kids often feel anxious or uncertain about the changes, and it’s important to manage their emotions while keeping the moving process as smooth as possible. Ensuring that your children are well-prepared for the move can help reduce their stress and make the transition easier for the whole family.
In this article, we’ll explore some key things to remember if you’re moving with children, from how to involve them in the process to making the transition to a new home more comfortable.
1. Involve Your Children in the Move
Children can feel anxious about moving because it often means leaving behind their familiar surroundings, school, and friends. Involving them in the process can help ease their anxiety and give them a sense of control over the situation.
Discuss the Move Early: Start talking to your children about the move as soon as possible. Explain why you’re moving and what they can expect. Answer any questions they have, and be honest about the challenges, while also focusing on the positive aspects of the move, such as new adventures or making new friends.
Let Them Help Pack: Depending on their age, allow your children to help pack their own belongings. Give them boxes to pack their toys, books, and other items. This involvement will make them feel included and give them a sense of ownership over their belongings during the move.
2. Keep Their Routine as Stable as Possible
Moving can disrupt your child’s daily routine, which can increase their stress and anxiety. Wherever possible, try to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Stick to Regular Schedules: In the lead-up to the move, try to stick to regular routines such as meal times, bedtimes, and school or childcare schedules. A stable routine provides comfort and reassurance for children during a time of uncertainty.
Maintain Familiar Rituals: Keep up with familiar activities, such as family dinners, reading before bed, or playtime routines. Familiarity can make your children feel secure, even as everything else around them changes.
3. Visit the New Home and Area if Possible
If you’re moving to a new city or even just a new neighbourhood, visiting the area with your children before the move can help them feel more comfortable with the transition.
Take a Tour of the New Home: If possible, visit the new home with your children before moving day. Let them explore their new bedrooms, the garden, and the nearby surroundings. This allows them to become familiar with their new environment and get excited about the upcoming move.
Explore the New Neighbourhood: Show your children fun aspects of their new area, like nearby parks, playgrounds, or fun activities. If they’ll be changing schools, consider arranging a tour of the new school so they can see where they’ll be going and meet their new teachers.
4. Pack a Special “Moving Day Kit” for Your Children
Moving day can be chaotic, and it’s easy for children to feel bored or overwhelmed. A special “moving day kit” can help keep them occupied and comfortable during the transition.
What to Include in a Moving Day Kit:
- Favourite Toys or Books: Include their favourite toys, books, or games to keep them entertained while the moving process is underway.
- Snacks and Drinks: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep them energised and content throughout the day.
- Comfort Items: Bring along a favourite blanket, stuffed animal, or comfort item that can help soothe any anxiety or stress during the move.
- Tablet or Activity Book: If your children like watching videos or playing games on a tablet, it can be a helpful way to keep them entertained during longer stretches of waiting.
5. Keep Communication Open
Children often have a lot of emotions about moving, and it’s important to keep communication open. Allow your children to express their feelings and listen to their concerns.
Address Their Fears: Reassure your children that it’s normal to feel nervous or sad about moving. Answer any questions they have and provide comfort when needed. By acknowledging their feelings, you help them feel more understood and supported.
Encourage Positivity: While it’s important to acknowledge the difficulties of moving, try to focus on the positive aspects. Talk about the new adventures they’ll have, the new friends they’ll make, and any exciting opportunities that come with living in a new place.
How can I help my child adjust to a new school?
To help your child adjust to a new school, visit the school beforehand if possible to familiarise them with their new environment. Arrange a meeting with their new teacher and introduce them to classmates if possible. Encourage your child to talk about any concerns and reassure them that feeling nervous is normal. Staying involved in their school life during the transition can help them feel supported.
6. Plan for the First Night in Your New Home
The first night in a new home can be unsettling for children, especially if everything feels unfamiliar. Planning ahead for a comfortable first night can help ease the transition.
Set Up Their Bedroom First: When you arrive at your new home, prioritise setting up your children’s bedroom. Unpack their bedding, familiar toys, and comfort items to make the space feel cosy and inviting.
Stick to Bedtime Routines: Try to keep the same bedtime routine, even in the new house. If your child is used to a specific bedtime story or lullaby, continue with those familiar activities to create a sense of normalcy in the new environment.
7. Give Children Time to Say Goodbye
Saying goodbye to friends, neighbours, and familiar places can be difficult for children. Allow them the time to say goodbye and process their feelings before leaving.
Plan a Farewell Event: Consider hosting a small farewell gathering for your children and their friends. This could be a playdate, a simple afternoon in the park, or even a video call for virtual goodbyes if you’re moving far away. It helps provide closure and lets your child share positive memories with their friends.
Create a Memory Book: Help your child create a memory book or scrapbook with photos of their old home, friends, and favourite places. This can be a comforting keepsake that reminds them of the good times in their old home and provides reassurance during the move.
8. Give Your Child Time to Adjust
Moving is a big change, and it may take time for your child to fully adjust to their new environment. Be patient and supportive during this transition period.
Expect Mixed Emotions: It’s normal for children to have mixed emotions after a move. They may feel excited about the new home but sad about leaving their old one behind. Give them time to express these feelings and remind them that it’s okay to feel this way.
Encourage New Friendships: Help your child adjust by encouraging them to make new friends, whether through school, local sports clubs, or community activities. Being socially connected can help them settle into their new life more quickly.
How long does it take for a child to adjust after moving?
The time it takes for a child to adjust to a new home can vary, but it often takes a few weeks to several months for them to fully settle in. Each child is different, so be patient and provide consistent support as they adjust to their new environment. Maintaining routines and staying engaged with their school or activities can help speed up the adjustment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make moving less stressful for my toddler?
For toddlers, keep familiar routines in place as much as possible. Pack their favourite toys and comfort items in an easily accessible box and make sure their new room is set up quickly. Offering plenty of reassurance and attention during the move can help reduce anxiety. Keeping snacks and activities on hand during the move also helps prevent frustration.
Should I tell my children about the move early on?
Yes, it’s important to talk to your children about the move as early as possible. This gives them time to process the change and allows for open communication about their concerns. It also gives you the opportunity to involve them in the moving process, helping them feel more in control and prepared.
How can I keep my children occupied during the move?
To keep your children occupied during the move, prepare a “moving day kit” with their favourite toys, games, snacks, and drinks. Tablets or activity books can also help keep them entertained. If possible, arrange for a relative or friend to watch younger children while you manage the logistics of the move.
Conclusion
Moving with children can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and approach, it can also be a smooth and even positive experience. Involving your children in the process, maintaining familiar routines, and providing emotional support are key to helping them adjust. By planning ahead and keeping the lines of communication open, you can make moving day less stressful and help your children embrace the exciting new chapter in their lives.