Preparing for moving day can be stressful for adults. Hence, it is harder to find time to talk to the kids and prepare them for the changes that are about to occur. Whilst they mostly won't help in preparing all the stuff you need to take with you, it is important to find time to talk to the kids about the move and help them prepare for it too.
1. Let them know about the move sooner than later
As you start preparing for the big day, the kids will also start noticing some of the changes that are happening around them. Whilst some may not show it, these changes may cause some children to be anxious and worried about what is happening around them. Before you start making the obvious preparations, find some time to talk to the kids about the move. You may start by telling them what will change and what will stay the same when you move into your new home. This way, they won't be too spooked when things start changing around the house.
2. Encourage the kids to share their feelings about the move
With all the changes happening around them, the young ones may have trouble processing their emotions. Hence, it would be better if they have someone to talk to about how they are feeling about the move. Instead of just asking them to sit still or play until everything is ready, use a few breaks or spend some time to talk about their feelings. Doing this will also help you understand what you need to do to make them feel better or to lessen their anxiety about the move.
3. Declutter as early as you can
To avoid stressing out the children on your future moves, it's best to sort your things as early as possible. It is possible that children will associate decluttering with some negative emotions when you move, especially when they are asked to let go of some of their favourite things. To avoid this, start sorting your things as soon as you have a date for the move and get rid of the things that you won't need or can't take to your new home. When possible, get the young ones involved by letting them choose which items to keep and give away/dispose of.
4. Let them participate in preparing for the move
Whilst it is obvious that the adults will do most of the packing and preparations for the move, this does not mean that the children can't help. Letting them help in packing their belongings in boxes or containers will not only help relieve some of the stress but also keeps them busy whilst you pack other belongings that you wish to take with you. To make it more personal enjoyable for the kids, let them draw or scribble on their boxes. This way, they can look forward to opening their boxes when you reach your new home.
5. Help them keep in touch with old friends from your previous home
When you move to a new home, you don't simply change houses and move your belongings from one location to another. When you have school-age children, moving to a new home can become more complicated as they may have to change schools, meet new teachers, make new friends, look for a new favourite park/shop, and many more. With all these changes happening at once, it may be more difficult for children to adjust to their new life/environment. Keeping in touch with old friends or teachers can help them adjust and find some comfort in their new lives. Be sure to collect their contact details or addresses so the kids will always have a way to connect with their friends.
6. Visit your new home
Whenever possible, try to visit your new home with the kids. Seeing the new house itself will help the children visualize where things will go when you move. If you are moving to a different city or state, use the visit as an opportunity to do a little tour and locate nearby parks, shops, or restaurants that you can visit later on. While moving around, you can explain how they go to each location from the house and what you can all do once the move is finished. It may not instantly eliminate their worries about moving, it will give them a good starting point if they know what to expect.
7. Make good memories
Before leaving your old home, be sure to make lots of good memories that the children can look back to as you settle in your new home. You may invite some friends over to share a meal or for the kids to just play and hang out with their friends. Take some photos or videos to preserve these precious moments. You can also make an album or journal of the kid's favourite places, food, or activities that are unique to your old home. Every good memory they have of the new home will provide them comfort and assurance that things will be okay as they try to get used to their new lives.
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