Moving house is a big deal for the whole family, but especially so for children. While you may be looking forward to a bigger garden, or extra bedroom, they can be worrying about meeting new friends, starting a new school or feeling sad that they are leaving behind people they have known for years.
 
Moving is an inevitable part of life though, especially as the family grows. So to make it a lot easier on your seven, eight or nine-year-old, follow these tips:
 
Keep them in the loop
Your kids are old enough to be able to spot when something major is happening. So always keep them in the loop about what is going on. Keep them informed from the very first day, telling them that you are looking for a house, explaining why you are moving and even bring them to viewings.
 
Get them excited
Their excitement is likely to be overshadowed by the fact that they are leaving friends behind so do all you can to ensure that they are looking forward to the move. Talk about the fact that they will have their own room or maybe a bigger garden. Even if you are downsizing and they might have to share you can get them excited by talking about fun things in the area, etc.
 
Make sure you move at the right time
The move may already be hard enough on your child without moving them half way through the year. So, if possible, try to schedule the move during the school holidays, especially if they have to change schools. This way they will get to finish the year with their class friends and then start afresh in September.
 
Get them involved
Make sure your son or daughter feels involved in the move. Give them boxes to pack stuff from their own room and to put away toys from the garden. When you finally do make the move, encourage them to pick out colours for their bedroom or ask for their advice on where to put things – anything that will make them feel like they have some involvement in the move.
 
Keep in touch with old friends
Invite old friends over to see the new house when you are settled or get your little ones to keep in touch via Skype or as a penpal. Moving away from friends is the hardest thing about a move, so make sure your youngster doesn’t feel like they are leaving anyone behind. 

Latest

Trending