Frontier Family- Moving with Kids

Moving with children can be difficult, especially when they are young. Of course there is the practical side, the sorting and the packing of all of their things and the logistics of where they will be during the transition from one home to another. But there is also a highly emotional side to relocation. It is common for children to feel insecure and act out if they are feeling at all uprooted. In order to avoid this situation as much as possible, it pays to be both organized and think of simple ways to make moving a special experience for the whole family.

Have a Family Meeting. While it may be hard to explain, the sooner your child knows about the move the more time they will have to adjust. Encourage any questions they might have and make the concept of changing homes something that sounds like an interesting adventure.

Get your Kids Involved. If a child feels like they are an important part of the team, they will be more likely to help out. Keep positive energy about your move going. Encourage the planning of a moving sale and allocate the proceeds to something everyone in the family wants like a new game system or a new pet.

Create a Special Bag. Each child should have a special suitcase, packed for about 3 days worth of time. It should include not only living essentials like clothes and toiletries, but also things that will make their first few days in their new place feel like home. Familiar personal items like their favorite toy or blanket, glass or game. This will help your child to feel more like they belong in your new place of residence.

Have a Family Party. Make the first night in your new home special. Order a pizza, play board games on the floor, or make a tent with blankets and boxes. Even though moving can be filled with its headaches and stresses, it is important to find creative ways to make your kids feel like a good change has just occurred in the life of your family.