Introduction
Relocating can be a very tedious process, especially if you are having to relocate to a new area within a different state or country with children. However there is no need to make this a difficult time for the family, with a little preparation and lots of love you should be able to make this an easy transition. This article will present strategies on how to prepare them for the big move.
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Start with a Positive Attitude
Parental behaviours are learned by children and acted by them. In this respect, the positive emotions that you wear throughout the course of the exercise are likely to be returned in equal measures. Discuss what other experiences they are likely to expect in the new location – freedom to roam around in a larger compound, or easy access to a park, or are there other children they can likely to play with. Conveying an enthusiastic and positive tone will help in setting that optimistic tone.
Involve Them in the Process
Children are safe when they feel they are part of what is going on around them. Allow them to pack their own items, if you want them to get involved in the packing process. Turn it into a competition – who can pack faster, or who has found the most toys to give out, for example. If they are allowed to have some say on matters regarding the issue at hand, they are generally less stressed.
Visit the New Place (Virtually or In Person)
If possible, try to make a tour, preferably a few days before the moving date, to your new house. Take your kids to view their new room, the options of learning institution that they will be attending in the near future, and other relevant facilities such as parks. Choose the option where you both can at least virtually tour the area of interest.
Pack a Special Moving Day Bag
Before actually moving, each child should have their survival kit: toys, favorite books, snacks, and games. This will offer them a familiar environment and keep the kids busy during the journey. Those familiar comforts are there to provide the essential human need of anchoring the trip and having the feeling of a real adventure.
Prepare for the First Night
Spending the first night in a new place is always a tough ordeal. You start on your children’s rooms first to ensure they have a familiar environment they can relax in. Ensure that the children have their favourite bedding, toys, and nightlights handy. Reading to them or singing them a lullaby, just like before the change in routine could help them relax.
Looking Forward to New Beginnings
Reassure your children that moving is a new start and there are many good things waiting for them. Remind them that they have a chance to make new friends and perhaps find new locations they might like. Let them know how happy you are about the move and assure them that they won’t be alone through the transition.
The Bottom Line
As this article shows, long distance moving with kids is not something that has to be dreaded. Grab the basics that will help your children feel more secure and ready to take on the world, and you should always start off with a positive attitude and a hint of the fun to be had along the way.
