Here at Execu-move we understand that moving can be a very stressful time for families. The main goal for a family relocation is to cause as little disruption, to the lives of the children, as possible. There are a few steps that can be taken to make the transition as easy as possible. Here are 6 easy tips to help children cope with moving locally or moving internationally.
We know it’s easier to complete the move in the absence of children, but as tempting as it may be to send them off while you deal with the details, we encourage you to reconsider. To help the children cope with their fear and anxiety over the move, get them to participate in moving-related activities. It is often thought that some children are too young to understand, but if they are offered an explanation for why they will be living in a new home and there is excitement created around the move, it will be easier for them to adjust.
1. Involve Them
Kids will become enthusiastic about the move, if you make them feel like they are part of the process by giving them some responsibilities. There are many ways to do this.
Here are a few ideas:
- Take your child to look at the new house, new area and new school.
- Help them to make a few friends while you visit the area.
- Let them take photographs or draw pictures of the new home, school, parks or cool spots that excite them.
- Scout the area before you move and let the kids choose some fun activities they would like to do.
- If you are unable to take them to see the new house and area, collect all those tourist pamphlets and let the kids make a scrap book of activities in the new area that interest them. (This also keeps those little hands and minds busy while you are packing.)
- Encourage them to plan their new bedroom.
- Read fun books on moving.
- Let them write their own name and new address on the cartons they pack. This will help them remember their new home address.
2. Stay Calm and Get Organized
We know it’s crazy talk when you are in the throes of a move, but children will notice if the move is making you stressed or frustrated. The calmer you are, the more they sense a positive experience. Once you have arrived, with all your boxes try to get settled as quickly as possible and resume familiar routines like mealtimes, bedtimes and family times.
3. Pack Their Room Last and Unpack Their Room First
Packing their room last ensures that they have a safe haven while the rest of the house is in shambles. On moving day let your child pack an overnight box of favorite items that they can unpack when they arrive. This helps to make them feel involved and keeps them busy and excited when your move is being offloaded.
4. Prepare Them
Explain the move day to your kids carefully so that they are prepared. It is very important to help your children to say goodbye. You can host a farewell party for friends and give your child an address book so that they can stay in touch with their friends. Plan a trip back to their old hometown to visit their friends.
5. Make Your First Night Memorable
No matter how tired you are at the end of the day, try to enjoy a special family dinner in your home on the first night, even if you are sitting on the floor or making a fort out of empty boxes.
6. Give Them Time to Adjust
It is true that children are resilient and adapt quickly but allow them time to adjust too. Sometimes kids really miss their old home, friends and school. Put photos up of their old rooms and friends and encourage them to talk about their feelings. They will adjust and they will be calling out, “Mom! I’m home!” in no time.
For more info regarding our International Moves, please feel free to contact us for a No Obligation Free International Moving Quote.
