Moving can be a fun and thrilling moment, but it can also be stressful. Even emotionally stable adults may have a hard time moving, so it can be particularly challenging for children to move.
However, children can also benefit from a move because it prepares them to adapt to the new environment and situations.
What is the best age to move a child?
Children below five years of age are more malleable and will adjust better than older age groups to a move. You will have to answer what feels like uncountable questions and there may be a few tantrums. Trying to make the move as tangible as possible is recommended.
If you’re moving with elementary-aged kids, you can better explain a move to them. Have conversations with them about how they feel so that you can better help them adjust. Find ways for them to keep in contact with their classmates from home, like planning online playdates via Skype.
For pre-teens and teenagers, feeling like they have no say in the decisions being made can make them feel helpless which can translate to acts of rebellion. Involving them in as many decisions as possible can help to alleviate anxious feelings. Let them know that their BFF is just a text away. If it’s feasible, plan visits back to your old town.
The truth is that moving with kids can be difficult. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of tips to make moving with kids easier.
Discuss with the kids about the move
Before you move, talk to your kids about what they can expect and gauge how they feel about it. This way, you can solve any upcoming problems beforehand and help them work through their feelings about the move.
If you’re moving to somewhere close, take your kids to the new digs and explore the area.
For long-distance moves, give them as much information as you can and show them pictures of the house, the area, the town, and so on.
Let your kids have a say
Letting your children have input on a few decisions and involving them in the moving process will make them feel like they have more control over their lives. Moving is a big transition for anyone, especially kids, who often have little to no power over the decisions adults in their lives make. Small things like encouraging them to choose a paint color for their new room can help kids to feel a greater sense of control throughout the moving process.
Begin preparing for your kids for the move ASAP
This is seriously important to minimize stress for you and your kids during the actual move. Start planning ahead than you think you need to. Pack and prepare your present house for new tenants as early as you can so that you and your family aren’t running helter-skelter to organize while the movers are pulling into your driveway. If you need assistance with packaging, we’ve got you covered. Sam’s cleaning and hauling provide a range of packing services to suit your needs.
Partner with a kid-friendly moving company
Sam’s cleaning and Hauling is the nation’s number one moving company for a reason. Our goal is to make moving as stress-free as possible for your entire family. Our team can help you throughout the entire moving process. Whether you’re moving long-distance, or need help with packing or storage, we’ve got you covered.