Mixed Emotions: 3 Reasons to Include Your Kids in Making Moving Plans

You and your family are about to make a big move to a new town or city, and you are afraid that some or all of your family members will be less than thrilled about relocating. They may not want to leave their friends or schools, may have emotional ties to the neighborhood, or just be afraid of major changes. There are ways and means to make the adjustment less stressful and more adventurous for all. One of these is to include them in making moving plans.

Be Prepared

Including your children in moving plans will assist them in getting ready for this abrupt change in their lives. Begin preparing household members for the big move well in advance if possible. Give them time to get used to the idea, and then provide them with a list of all of the advantages of the new home and neighborhood.

Hold a family night and research the new area together. Find a map of the city and locate areas of interest such as parks, movie theaters, schools, and malls. Keep them updated on all the local happenings in their new neighborhood for several days before the move, so they are well aware of what is going on in the new area.

Be Involved

Get your children as involved as you can in the planning of the actual move. Give them specific areas of the old house to help pack and employ a moving company to make the load easier on everyone. As soon as you have your new home purchased or rented, draw out a floor plan and have everyone help decide where the furniture will be placed and what new pieces will be needed.

Allow your children to pick out their rooms and help them begin to arrange their furniture on paper. Go to a paint store and have them choose new colors for their rooms. You can also purchase coordinating accessories such that fit your budget.

Provide Family Bonding

You can use this stressful time to come together as a unit. There will be a common goal of moving to a strange town and acclimating to a completely different environment. This should bring family members together as they plan and anticipate the process. Yes, there will be tense moments and times of sadness and regret. Parents can use these times to discuss the move and how it will benefit the entire family.

If you think the moving process might be a bit too stressful, take a second look at your plans. If your kids are having a hard time with the packing process, send them on a day trip to reduce some stress.

As is evident, you can help your family become excited and interested in the new home and neighborhood. Be proactive and involve your kids with making moving plans.