We move our families and relocate for several reasons. Although moving to a new home or even a new city can be very stressful for adults, it can be even harder for our children. Our children rely on us for safety and security, and moving often means they might have to change schools and leave behind their friends or loved ones. Since moving to a new home can cause distress for our children, here are 12 ideas that can make your move easy and stress-free.

  1. Be open about the move. It is important that you talk to your children and let them know the reasons for the move. Also, make sure to provide enough time for them to process the idea of moving to a new home.
  2. Have a moving or going away party. Moving is very difficult for children and their friends. Let your children host a going away party and allow them to invite their friends or classmates.
  3. Utilize technology to allow them to keep in touch. If your kids are old enough to have a cell phone, texting or video calls are a great way to stay in touch with friends and classmates.
  4. If possible, let them visit their new home and school. If you are moving locally, it can be a great transition to help you kids visit their new home and school.
  5. Let your children decorate their rooms. Having your children choose the paint or arrange their furniture is a great way to help them feel involved and give them some sense of control.
  6. Involve them in the moving process. If possible, let your children help you choose your new home. Their input will allow them to feel like they are involved in the decision-making process.
  7. Say good-bye to your old home. Have your children make a list of their favorite memories of your old home. This might help give them a sense of closure.
  8. Unpack your children’s rooms first. Make setting up your children’s room a priority as it will allow them to have a sense of security and comfort while you are unpacking the remainder of the house. It will also keep them busy while you are unpacking and setting up.
  9. Set-up playdates. If you have friends or acquaintances near your new home, try setting up playdates if they also have children of similar ways. This can make moving much easier if they have a friend in their new town or city.
  10. Have fun. Although it is a stressful time, make sure to spend quality time with your kids. Try visiting a museum or park. If you can find one near your new home, it can be a great way to get your children more comfortable with the idea of moving.
  11. Try keeping your children’s routines the same after the move. Children thrive with structure and routines. Keeping your child’s routine similar in your new home will help make moving a bit easier for them.
  12. Seek professional help. Some children do not adjust well to change. If your child is having a difficult time in their new home or with their new environment you might try getting a therapist to help your child deal with their anxiety.

Overall, moving can be a very difficult and stressful time for both you and your children. Only you will be able to determine how your child is handling the transition. These helpful ideas can assuage some of the difficulties that come with relocating for your children.