Helping young children cope with moving takes some forethought and consideration, especially if they will be changing schools and need to find a place for themselves.
Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure for adults, but it can also be a challenging and overwhelming experience for young children. Relocating can disrupt their routines, separate them from familiar surroundings, and cause emotional distress. However, with careful planning and support, parents can significantly lower the impact of a move on their young children. Thankfully, there are effective strategies to help ease the transition and promote emotional well-being during this period of change.
Open Communication
From the moment the decision to move is made, open and honest communication with your child is crucial. Ensure that you explain the reasons behind the move in a language they can understand. Encourage them to express their feelings and concerns, providing reassurance and answering any questions they may have. By involving them in the process and making them feel heard, you can alleviate their anxiety and help them adapt more easily.
Familiarize Them
Before the move, introduce your child to their new surroundings. If possible, take them on a visit to the new neighborhood, show them the new house, and explore nearby parks or recreational areas. Familiarizing them with the new environment will create a sense of excitement and familiarity, making the transition less daunting. You can even show them pictures of the house and talk about how it will look once you’re living in it. Show them a picture of their new bedroom and ask them how they want it to be decorated. Most children will love getting an opportunity to voice their opinion and give input on how their space should look.
Maintain Routines
Children thrive on routines, as they provide stability and a sense of security. Try to maintain familiar routines as much as possible, especially during the early stages of the move. Keep mealtimes, bedtimes, and other daily activities consistent to provide a sense of normalcy. This will help your child feel more comfortable and secure amidst the changes.
Involve Them in the Packing Process
Engage your child in the packing process, allowing them to participate in age-appropriate tasks. This involvement will help them understand that their belongings are being carefully packed and will be coming with them to the new home. It also gives them a sense of control and ownership over their belongings, reducing feelings of powerlessness. Packing time can also be a fun time to sneak in a little bit of fun and play, which will help to ease stress and make the move feel like a fun activity rather than something that causes them stress or frustration.
Transition Support
If your child is changing schools, it is essential to provide additional support during this critical transition. Schedule visits to the new school and meet teachers and staff together. Obtain the necessary paperwork and discuss the curriculum to ensure your child feels prepared. Encourage your child to maintain contact with old friends and make an effort to help them build new friendships in their new environment.
Emotional Support
During the moving process, pay attention to your child’s emotional well-being. Encourage them to express their feelings and emotions openly and provide reassurance and comfort. Be patient and understanding as they adjust to the changes, and be prepared for potential regression in behavior or emotions. By offering consistent emotional support, you can help them navigate the transition with greater ease.
Get Moving With Up N Go Moving!
If you’re in the state of New York and you’re looking for a reliable moving company, you can count on us to help you get up and go! At Up N Go Moving, we offer 24/7/365 moving services within the state of New York as well as cross-country. We offer an extensive range of moving services to ensure that we can cater to your every need during your move because you deserve to have a moving company that cares about you and your belongings. Our office is located in Long Island City. You are welcome to stop in or call us today at (212) 744-6683. You can also contact us using our online form and find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
