Tips To Help Your Kids Make the Move to a New House
For some children, a move means leaving the only home they've ever known, which can be traumatic. However, even when the experience is positive, it can still be overwhelming. It is up to parents to help ease this transition. The following tips can help make a move a good experience and give your kids a chance to adjust to their surroundings in a positive way.
Make Sure They Have a Cool New Space
Kids need a dedicated space where they can retreat when things become too much, which might be more common than usual during and after a move. Giving them a cool new space — whether it is a bedroom, playroom or outdoor fort — is an excellent way to accomplish this. As a bonus, this area can be a way for kids to connect with eh new house.
Keep things simple and well-planned out. For example, putting toys and books low enough so that your youngest kids can get to them without needing a step ladder will help them feel more in control of the new environment. It is also helpful to ask for input during the design process instead of assuming you know what your kids want their space to look like.
Be Up Front About Every Step of the Move
While your head is busy thinking about things like the amount of your closing cost estimate, the kids want to know more about when they are going to have to say goodbye to their friends. Keep them updated and informed of what is going on so they do not feel overlooked. It will also help them plan for the move better, hopefully limiting meltdowns. Moving services can also assist, such as Suddath Moving Services.
Let Kids Help Pack Their Stuff
Even toddlers can help with packing chores. Maybe you don't want them wrapping dishes, but they can put favorite toys or clothes into boxes. Try to limit their efforts to their own items or household things that are truly unbreakable, just in case.
Sure, they may have a whole different packing technique than you. However, if the stuff ends up at your new house in one piece, it really doesn't matter what it looks like inside the boxes. Additionally, if things do get broken, you can always use this as a good opportunity to remind kids of taking responsibility for their actions.
Leave Time To Get to Know the New Neighborhood
Whenever possible, leave yourself a week to settle in before everyone has to report to work or school. This will give your family time to get familiar with your new surroundings, find the best travel routes for daily activities and have a little fun before getting down to business. It also leaves time for unpacking, so you aren't digging through boxes for everyday items for the next month or two.
Join a Local Activity Center
Even if you do have to get right to work, you can still make things fun. Head to the internet to check out activities before the move and find someplace fun that everyone will enjoy. Look into membership packages so that you can go as often as you want. Climbing gyms, children's museums and YMCAs are just a few ideas to help get your search underway.
Listen To What Your Kids Are Saying
Perhaps most importantly, listen to your kids. It is perfectly normal for kids to feel scared, angry or anxious during a move. They need your support now more than ever. If their feelings are getting in the way of daily activities, look into finding a qualified child psychologist to help them through this challenge.
Moving is a big deal to kids. You can make the transition go more smoothly by listening to their concerns, explaining the moving process, and letting them help. Providing a cool space for your kids in their new home and finding fun activities will also help them settle in. Looking for a new property? eXp Realty is a property search that may be a great resource for you!
