It can be very exciting to move to a brand new home and community, especially when you’re upgrading from your current living situation. But while you may look forward to this change, your children may feel the opposite way. The idea of uprooting and relocating to a new school far from their friends can bring on anxiety in kids and teens.
Sure, it’s difficult to move away from familiar people, places, and things, but there are ways you can ease the transition for them. Heed these tips.
1. Be Honest
Have an honest conversation about the move and each step it will involve. Your kids should feel informed and know what’s going to happen to them next. Indeed, children need to feel safe to express their fears while feeling comfortable asking questions. Answer any questions honestly but get to the point. Be understanding and use positive answers. Refrain from invalidating their fears, while acknowledging their concerns and explaining ways you can overcome those fears as a family.
2. Show Them Their New Home
If you can, bring them for a visit to their new neighborhood and even to the new house if it’s possible. If an in-person visit isn’t possible with them, take photos and videos when you are there for inspections and appraisals so you can show them later. Illustrate all the positive aspects of the move, from a big back yard to play in to finally having their own room.
3. Tour the New School
Check out the school website and show them all the clubs and activities they can join. If possible, take them on a tour of the school and introduce them to the principals, teachers, guidance counselors, etc. It’s important for them to feel prepared to take this big step, as starting a new school can be a large source of anxiety for children and teens. But they know it’s something they can’t negotiate, so this makes them feel powerless. Put them in control by making sure they know exactly what they’re walking into.
4. Let Them Pack
Get your kids involved in the packing process, delegating age-appropriate tasks they can handle. For little ones, ask them to pack a bag of their favorite things to take with them. For older ones, give them boxes and have them pack up their own stuff. They can label each box as they go along, sorting piles of toys and other items to throw out, donate or take with them.
5. Decorate the Kids’ Rooms First
Because kids crave structure and familiarity, make sure you decorate their rooms first so they can start acclimating right away. Having their own room ready to go will help them with the adjustment.
6. Check Out the New Neighborhood
Take a walk around the new neighborhood, introducing yourself to neighbors, navigating roads, exploring trails, and mapping out the area. Chat about things you can do as a family. Making sure they are familiar with their new neighborhood will keep them from feeling lost and out of sorts.
Contact Berkshire Hathaway Premier Properties
For more moving tips or to ask questions about buying and selling, please contact us today. We would be happy to help you navigate your real estate journey.