Change is never easy - especially for children. If you’ve found yourself in the midst of a huge life change, like moving to a new home, it’s important to come up with a strategic plan to help everyone involved ease into that process. Just as moving can be stressful for adults, children can experience this anxiety too, so I’ve brainstormed some tips on how to successfully move with children.
Communicate
Depending on the age of your children, the concept of “moving” may not be something they fully understand. Regardless of their age, one of the worst things you can do is to hide that you’re moving from your children. Being upfront and honest is the best approach when it comes to introducing this big change in their lives. Explaining the circumstances of the move will help them feel like active participants. This helps foster an environment for them to express how they are feeling, address concerns, and for you to answer questions about the move.
Show and Tell
Kids love show-and-tell! When they are able to visually see something rather than simply imagine it, it makes the process so much more fun. If you are able to physically bring them to the property to see their new home, children tend to have a change of heart because their excitement builds. Driving through the neighborhood and exploring new features that will remind them of the good that comes from moving is also a great strategy. If you aren’t able to see the location in person, pictures can help give your children something to visualize and create scenarios where their imagination can run free.
Get Them Involved
Finding a task for them to focus on will not only help them but also help you. For example, packing can be turned into a fun activity rather than a dreaded task. Packing is such an overwhelming undertaking, so if you needed some direction on how to make that process as easy as possible, look into my previous blog post that explains all the details.
Finding new decorations that can fill their new move is also a great way to spark excitement and help keep things light-hearted. Another way to involve them is to allow them to pick a new park, restaurant, or museum to explore. Actively treating moving as an enjoyable adventure rather than a stressful hassle translates to how they will view moving as well, so keeping a positive attitude is crucial.
Plan a Schedule - and Stick To It
Creating a schedule for move-in day and sticking to it is essential. Not only do children thrive on a routine, but it will also help save your sanity. Be sure to pencil in nap time and snack time in that schedule, because the last thing you need is cranky and hungry kids who are also dreading the move.
Next Steps
With all the stressful moments associated with moving and kids, the last thing you need to worry about is selling and/or buying your home. That’s what I’m here for! If you need help navigating these areas, contact me, and together we can make this a smooth transition for all. Reach out anytime at traceyrice@kw.com or at 405-226-3770.