When you’re moving to a new town or state, it’s easy to get so caught up in the details of the move that you forget about the impact the experience has on your children. Many worry about everything they’re going to miss when they move. They worry about where they will play, what kinds of activities they’ll be able to enjoy in their new home, and if they’ll make friends.
The good news is that there are several things you can do to make the entire experience easier for your kids.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your kids see how excited you are about the move. Too often, parents get so stressed about the entire process that the kids develop anxiety. Instead of exciting, the move becomes scary. No matter how stressed you might be, no matter how far behind schedule you’ve become, try to remain upbeat about the experience. When things become overwhelming, go on a walk with your family and discuss all the great things associated with the move. Not only will this help the kids stay excited, but you’ll also feel some of your stress melting away.
Get your kids involved. Some parents don’t let their kids take part in the packing and the planning because the kid’s slow things down. While it’s true, that packing will take a little longer when you’re kids help, being involved gives your kids a sense that they are both important and that they have some control over the situation.
Before the move happens, talk to people in the area that you’re moving into. Have activities and classes set up before the move so that as soon as they’ve relocated, your children are involved in things and in a position to make new friends.
Once you’ve relocated, don’t get so wrapped up in unpacking that your kids become bored. In addition to the classes and activities you’ve planned for them, arrange small outings that allow you to explore your new neighborhood. One night, consider going to get ice cream. On a different afternoon, check out some of the local parks and playgrounds. Take a half-day to visit a local zoo or arcade. Not only do these things help your children decompress, but they also serve as great memory-making opportunities.