Moving is a stressful activity in general. But things get all the more complicated when there are children involved. No matter whether it is one’s first or fourth time moving as a family, it is extremely important to see the transition from the perspective of the child. The team of Safe Ship Moving Services mentions that guardians should try their best to involve kids as much as possible in the moving process, and take vital steps to minimize friction during the transition.
Safe Ship Moving Services sheds light on how to prepare kids for a move
There are many reasons why one may have to relocate to a new home with the family. One may have got a better job in a different city. Or, they are simply moving across the city to a bigger home and neighbourhood. Regardless of the specific reasons one may have, it is important to talk about them with the kids. This will help ease any frustrations, worries and anxieties they may have. If the child is a toddler or baby, then it is better to use simple sentences and try to gauge their nonverbal reactions to understand how they might be feeling. If the child is a bit older, then one may hold an open forum for the family in order to address any concerns about the move.
- If one has a toddler or a very young kid, then they need to emphasize on stability and explain that all the belongings of the child would be moved to the new home. The child should be reminded of this when packing their belongings, as they may get disturbed if they do not find their toys, dolls or stuffed animals at the usual place.
- It is better to be honest and direct with the reasons behind the move if the child is a teen. Parents need to compassionately listen to any concerns the child may have. It is important to create a space where the child feels heard.
Involving children in the moving process can go a long way in empowering them, especially at a time when they feel most helpless. As one creates the moving to-do list, they should try to identify projects that the kids can help with, or even handle all by themselves. Even handling a small task can provide kids with a sense of accomplishment.
- Younger kids: They can pack up a box of items from their room, clean up moving messes or do light tasks like taping boxes
- Older kids: They can be errand buddies for picking up boxes and donation, help manage the to-do list and take care of a younger sibling
The team of Safe Ship Moving Services mentions that while involving kids in the moving process is generally a good idea, there can also be times where it is not practical or even safe for children to work on move related chores. On these days, one has to find ways to keep the children occupied. Letting them enjoy more screen time than usual would be a simple way to do so.
