Moving With Kids Tips
White Glove's Moving With Kids Tips
Sooner or later, many families face the prospect of either relocating across
the country or of moving locally undergoing the experience of moving NJ
or moving to NYC. Disruptive as moving NYC can be for parents, the
experience may be even more traumatic for kids, who may not have been
involved in the decision to move and may not understand it. Kids may
need some time and special attention during the transition. You can take
steps to make the entire process less stressful for everyone.
Making the Decision to Move
Many kids thrive on familiarity and routine. So as you consider a move,
weigh the benefits of that change against the comfort of established
surroundings, school and social life give your kids. If your family has
recently dealt with a major life change, such as divorce or death, you may
want to postpone a move, if possible, to give your child time to adjust. The
decision to move may be out of your hands, perhaps due to a job transfer
or financial issues. Even if you're not happy about the move, try to
maintain a positive attitude about it. During times of transition, a parent's
mood and attitude can greatly affect kids, who may be looking for
reassurance.
Discussing the Move with Kids
No matter what the circumstances, the most important way to prepare kids
for the move is to talk about it. Try to give your child as much information
about the move as soon as possible. Answer questions completely and
truthfully, and be receptive to both positive and negative reactions. Even if
the move means an improvement in family life, kids don't always
understand that and may be focused on the frightening aspects of the
change. Involve the kids in the planning process as much as possible and
help them feel like participants in house-hunting or in the search for a new
school. This can make the change feel less like it's being forced on them.
If you're moving across town, try to take your child to visit the new house
(or see it being built) and explore the new neighborhood. For long
distance moves, try to provide as much information as you can about the
new home, city, and state (or country). Learn where kids can participate in
favorite activities. See if a relative, friend, or even a real estate agent can
take pictures of the new house and new school for your child.
Moving NJ with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
Kids younger than 6 may be the easiest to move, as they have a limited
capacity to understand the changes involved. Still, your guidance is
crucial. Here are ways to ease the transition for young kids: Keep
explanations clear and simple. Use a story to explain the move, or use toy
trucks and furniture to act it out. When you pack your toddler's toys in
boxes, make sure to explain that you aren't throwing them away. If your
new home is nearby and vacant, go there to visit before the move and
take a few toys over each time. Hold off on getting rid of your child's old
bedroom furniture, which may provide a sense of comfort in the new
house. It might even be a good idea to arrange furniture in a similar way in
the new bedroom. Avoid making other big changes during the move, like
toilet training or advancing a toddler to a bed from a crib. Arrange for your
toddler or preschooler to stay with a babysitter on moving day.
NJ Moving with School-Age Kids
Kids in elementary school may be relatively open to a move, but still need
serious consideration and help throughout the transition. There are two
schools of thought about "the right time to move." Some experts say that
summer is the best time because it avoids disrupting the school year.
Others say that midyear is better because a child can meet other kids right
away. To avoid glitches that would add stress, gather any information the
new school will need to process the transfer. That may include the most
recent report card or transcript, birth certificate, and medical records.
Moving With Teens
It is common for teens to actively rebel against a move. Your teen has
probably invested considerable energy in a particular social group and
may be involved in a romantic relationship. A move may mean that your
teen will miss a long-awaited event, like a prom. It's particularly important
to let teens know that you want to hear their concerns and that you
respect them. While blanket assurances may sound dismissive, it's
legitimate to suggest that the move can serve as a rehearsal for future
changes, like college or a new job. After the move, consider planning a
visit back to the old neighborhood, if it's feasible. Also, see if the teen can
return for events like a prom or homecoming. If you're moving midway
through a school year, you might want to consider letting an older teen
stay in the old location with a friend or relative, if that's an option.
After Moving Day
After the move, try to get your child's room in order before turning your
attention to the rest of the house. Also, try to maintain your regular
schedule for meals and bedtime to give kids a sense of familiarity. When
your child does start school, you may want to go along to meet as many
teachers as possible or to introduce your child to the principal. Set realistic
expectations about the transition. Generally, teachers expect new kids to
feel fairly comfortable in their classes after about 6 weeks. Some kids
need less time; others might need more. After the move, if you're still
concerned about your child's transition, a family therapist might provide
some helpful guidance. A move can present many challenges, but good
things also come from this kind of change. Your family might grow closer
and you may learn more about each other by going through it together.
We at White Glove Moving, one of the most experienced
moving process with our professional NJ movers.
