On the Move

Relocating With Young Ones Requires Extra Care

Children love routines and familiarity, and nothing is more familiar to them than their home, which provides a sense of security and comfort. But the reality is that many families with young children will pack up their belongings and relocate this year. In fact, records show that about 43 million Americans move each year. Those moves can be a source of concern and anxiety for children.

Here are some simple steps that can help ease your children's fears and make the move more enjoyable for the entire family:

• Be sure to talk. Make sure to include children in the discussions about the move, and focus on the things you know – where you will move and why you are moving. And be sure to update children as other answers become available, such as when the real estate sign is going in the yard, when the move will take place and what the new home and town will be like. Don't forget that your attitude will determine your children's feelings about the move – if you're positive, they will be positive. If you seem fearful and anxious, so will they. Continually remind them of the positive aspects of the move.
• Share the work. Children respond better to situations in which they feel they have some control or at least a role. Make them a part of the moving process by letting them help pack and decorate their own boxes, assist in planning the route the family will take to the new home and allowing them to have input on the decor of their new room.


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Want to see more?

• The Big Move: Moving With Kids Does Not Have to Be a Struggle
• Moving on a Dime: Save Money, Save Time, Save Your Sanity
• On the Move: Helping Children Adjust to Moving and Relocation
• Talk about it!