|
 Moving
can be hard on you emotionally, but it can be especially
hard on your children. However, by following these steps,
you can help make the transition as smooth as possible.
With well over 10% of the population moving each year,
the likelihood is that you will end up moving eventually.
According to KidsHealth (kidshealth.org), it is common
for children to go through many different and often
contrasting emotions when they find out they are going
to move. A recent Realty Times article discussed the
different ways in which you can help make the transition
from old home to new home as easy as possible for your
child.
Step One
Tell your child as soon as possible about
the move. Children need a lot of time to get comfortable
with the idea of moving.
Step Two
Make sure they feel they can come to you
with any questions they have. Use these questions as
a gauge to how they are feeling – happy or nervous!
Make sure you fully explain any differences they are
likely to encounter, such as weather differences, or
just the general appearance of things.
Step Three
Remain upbeat! You child’s attitude
will tend to mirror yours, so try and set a good example
for your child.
Step Four
Try to include them as much as possible;
let the research your new community, bring them along
to view potential new homes.
Step Five
Once you have finalized where you are moving,
try to get your child as settled as possible before
you move, if possible. Take him or her to visit the
school and new teacher, sign them up for any sports
or other extra-curricular activities he or she might
be interested in.
Step Six
Before you leave, throw a going-away party
for your child to give them an opportunity to say goodbye
to their friends. Then encourage your child to keep
in touch with his or her friends. This is easier than
ever thanks to the proliferation of e-mail!
Step Seven
Once you have moved, allow your child to
add some self-expression to their new room. Depending
on your budget, you can give the room an entirely new
theme, or simply a lick of new paint in their favorite
color!
By following these simple steps, remaining
available to answer questions and just generally being
there for your child, the process should be much smoother!
|
