"When it comes to the future of moving, we know exactly which way to go!"

Moving is tough for kids too. Leaving familiar places and friends can be a terrifying thought for anyone. Children need adults to comfort them by listening to the and by encouraging them. You can make a big difference in how your kids view change and the rewards that can follow.

BEFORE THE MOVE

• Tell your kids about the move as soon as you can. The more time they have to think about it, the more time they will have to think about it and prepare.
• Most children will display feelings of anger, resentment, sadness or worry. These feelings are normal. Share similar worries or concerns of your own about work or finding a new home reassuring them that they are not alone.
• Help or encourage older children to prepare a list of phone numbers and addresses of close friends, relatives and other important people in their lives. Keeping in touch with important people after the move helps to make for a more successful move.
• For older children, have them help with finding the new home by listing the positives and negatives of each home you consider.
• If possible, take your older children with you to see new homes. If this isn’t possible, take pictures of the new home, schools that they will attend, a nearby park and anything else that will be of interest to them.
• If your child is in Jr. High or High School, call the school to speak with the guidance counselor. They can also be helpful to your child by having someone else to talk to.
• Try to line up some activities or special events ahead of time in the new city that interests your child. Get them involved early and keep them involved. This will be a great way for your child to develop new relationships which is a very important part of a child’s life.
• If possible, try to meet some of the new neighbors before the move.

DURING THE MOVE

• Try to remain positive and upbeat during the move. Good planning makes this possible and will keep the entire family in a better frame of mind.
• Older or young, involve your children in packing. Encourage them to make packing time a good time to rid of things that they haven’t used in a long time or can no longer wear.
• Keep regular routines, eating, napping and bedtime during the move.
• Pack your child’s “favorite” toys, blankets, pillows, etc. separate to take with you in the car or while you travel.
• Help your children say good-bye to the important people in their lives. Have a pizza party or a sleep over.
• Keep a “can do” and positive attitude when things don’t go so well (expect it). This will help keep the move on a positive track.

AFTER THE MOVE

• When your household goods arrive, try not to spend all of your time unpacking. This is the time to unpack the essentials and then spend a few days enjoying your family and your new home. Take a walk, visit the park, and check out local shopping areas and restaurants. Introduce yourself to new neighbors.
• Invite neighbor children over for pizza and video games.
• Let your children become involved with the decorating, especially their own rooms.
• Get involved in church groups, activity clubs and enable socializing.
• If your child is experiencing difficulties or signs of depression after a couple of months, ask a doctor, guidance counselor or principal if the can refer someone. Some signs to look for include academic difficulties, ongoing irritability, trouble with peers, changes in sleeping or eating habits or a generally despondent mood. Give them time. These behaviors can last for 4 to 5 months for teens. With your understanding and patience, after a while, your children will be reassured that things do get better with time, what was new to them will become everyday for them and that home is family. 

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