Moving is a big change, especially for kids. To some it can be an adventure, something to look forward to. On the other hand, some kids may find it traumatic and resist the idea, especially if it means leaving behind their friends and other things they are familiar with.  Here are some tips to  help kids get adjusted to the idea of moving to a new place.

• Tell your kids as soon as possible! This will give them time to get used to the idea
• Be positive. Show your kids a good, upbeat attitude
• Answer all of their questions truthfully and honestly. Let them express their feelings about moving
• When planning your move, it may actually be more beneficial to move in the middle of the school year – this plants them from one social setting to another, plus teachers and fellow students may be willing to help your child because he’s the “new kid”
• Try to help them focus on the positive things – things they can look forward to, new places they can visit, new friends to make, their new room etc.
• Make an effort to include them in the house hunting process – bring them if it’s practical, but if it’s not, try to show them pictures
• Let them help with the move too! Ask to to arrange a garage sale for things you won’t be needing and let them pack and label their own boxes
• Allow them enough time to say goodbye to family and friends. A going-away party may be a good way to get everyone together and encourage them to keep in contact via email, letters or phone (if practical)
• During moving day, it may be a good idea to have a friend or sitter take them out, while you take care of finishing the move
• While it may be difficult to keep your cool, try to remain calm and upbeat during moving day
• When you arrive at your new home, let your kids “explore” the place before starting the chaos of unpacking
• Keep them involved with settling into the new house – let them arrange their rooms (if appropriate) or give them some sort of chore, such as checking/counting boxes, unpacking, etc.
• Bring them to museums, parks, attractions in the new city
• Arrange to visit the school and meet the teacher before they start with classes
• Depending on your kids’ interest, enroll them in classes or activities to help the meet other children their own age; try to arrange for a small get-together with neighborhood kids
• Try to settle into a routine as soon as possible

Some books that may help kids manage with moving:

We’re Moving by Heather Maisner – great for young kids! This book tells the story of little Amy, whose family has to move away. At first, she is scared, but later starts to feel better

I’m Not Moving, Mama by Nancy White Carlstrom – a cute story about Little Moue, whose mom packs up her stuff , while Little Mouse finds reasons not to leave (don’t worry, there’s a happy ending!)

Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day by Jan Berenstain – fans of the series will be delighted to read about how the Berenstains moved into their iconic treehouse

Remember, kids can be resilient and adjust quickly. Pretty soon, they’ll be making new friends and having fun in their new home.