Whether you’re moving down the street, across the country, or to a different country, moving is never easy for children. Children thrive on solid routines and schedules. Packing up their room and moving to a brand new house is scary and unsettling. They no longer know exactly where their favorite snack cabinet is. Their bedroom is all boxed up. All their favorite hiding places are empty caves.
The good news is there are ways to help ease this transition and help them feel like they have some control over the situation.
Involve your children in the process.
Warn your child that they will be moving. If you live close enough, take them to their new neighborhood to explore and take a look at their new home. Ask them if they’re excited to meet the new kids in their community, and ask them if they’d like to help you plan something sweet to do for your new neighbors.
If your new house is too far away to visit casually, pull up Google Maps and let them explore virtually! Look up fun ice cream places nearby and ask them if they’re excited to have an ice cream date once they’re all moved in.
Allow your child to redesign their new room! Come up with a few different themes you think they would like, and allow them to help plan out their new bedroom. They will be thrilled by the idea of having a brand new room!
If your children are in school, don’t move in the middle of the school year.
Unless you are required by work to move on a specified date, try to plan your move over the summer break. Finishing the school year at their old school will allow your child to feel a sense of closure when they part ways with friends. This will also prevent them from becoming “the new kid” at their new school since there are likely to be many new students once school resumes.
Make the move fun.
You’re likely familiar with the idea of kids having more fun with the box than the toy inside. Moving provides the perfect opportunity to build as many box forts and box rocket ships as your children want! Here are some fun box craft ideas for you to try out with your children during your move.
Books help children understand concepts that are new to them. Here is an excellent list of children’s books for you to read together to help them understand the transition they are about to go through.
Don’t show them you’re stressed.
Children are highly receptive to our stress and emotions. Moving and the costs associated can be stressful for everyone involved, but it’s important to save these conversations for after bedtime. When you’re around your children, try to keep the conversation about moving upbeat. Talk about how excited you are and about all the amazing opportunities and new memories you will make in your new home!
The Inspire Kids Montessori family in Ahwatukee wishes you and a smooth move!
