Moving is stressful enough when it is just you and perhaps the spouse. However, for children who are still in school, moving can be a very stressful experience. There are several reasons for this, but keep in mind that their world is being changed perhaps radically because of the move itself. However, there are some things that you can do to help alleviate at least some of the stress.
Let Everyone Know Early About Your Move
Hold a family meeting and let everyone know about the move that is taking place, the reasons for it, and what to expect. By letting everyone know and keeping them informed, it takes away the stress of the unknown. Kids feel better when they are told what is going to happen, what they should expect, and how they should feel about this change in your lives.
Plan Your Move in the Summer if Possible
The biggest stress that kids will face is moving to a new school system. If you can, try to time your move during the summer so that the stress is greatly reduced. If that is not possible, try for the Winter or Spring break so that they have a little time to adjust. Keep in mind that they may need to catch-up on their new schoolwork, so try to time your move with that in mind.
Assign The Kids Tasks
Considering that many five-year-old kids are better at finding things on the internet that you are, you can assign them specific tasks to help you in the moving process. From finding temporary places to live to getting their room ready for the move, when you assign them a task it will help focus their mind on something to do rather than worry about what will happen.
Include Them in the Process
When you are closing on a new home, bring them along. Include them in the process as much as you can so that it sinks in about the changes that will be made. This will help them make the adjustment better so that they undergo less stress during this time.
Throw a Party
In the days before you move, throw a party and invite all the children that your kids know and play with so they have at least one more visit before they leave. Call it a “See You Soon” party and not a “Goodbye” one because depending on where you move, your children might see them again. By saying “See You Soon”, it takes away the stress that they might never see them again while looking forward to making new friends after you move.
Make it a Fun Road Trip
On the way to your new destination, if you are moving a considerable distance away, find some fun place to go and make it epic. By making your move more of an adventure where you and your family can see new sights, it will help your children better cope with the changes that are happening.
While you may not take away all the stress that they feel, you can reduce it for them along with you and your spouse.
If you are moving to the Miami or South Florida region, we can help! Contact us today for your moving needs. 1-305-888-3963