It’s a theme of all kinds of young adults novels, TV shows and movies and has been for decades. The new kid in town struggling to make their way having been removed from their old friends and comfortable home.
It’s a scenario is endlessly relatable, because it can be so accurate. It’s hard for kids to move to a new home, adjust to a new school, and make new friends, but there are things parents can to do make them feel less overwhelmed.
Here are just some tips for helping kids adjust when they relocate to a new home
Prepare Your Children in Advance.
Being prepared means saying goodbye to people and places before the move takes place, Well before your scheduled move, talk to your children about your plans to relocate. They’ll be more willing to part with old friends and familiar surroundings if they know something about the home they’re moving to and the reasons behind the move.
Make Sure They Know About Big Changes They’ll Face.
Children often fear the unknown. When they don’t know anything about how their lives may change, their imaginations fill in the blanks. The more they understand about what their new home will be like, the less threatened they’ll feel.
For example, if extended family members who’ve been a part of their lives no longer will live nearby, they need to have an explanation.
Let Them Participate in the Move.
In order to make your child feel more of a part of what’s going on, give them chores to do to get ready for the move. If they’re allowed to pack their own things, they’ll understand that their possessions will be waiting for them when they arrive at their new home.
Plan Activities For Your Road Trip.
If you’re driving a great distance to your new home, the trip will go more smoothly if you plan activities for your kids. Ask them what toys, games, and movies they would like to have with them. Consider splurging on new books or a new movie that your kids can use in the car and take plenty of rest breaks along the way.
Make Their New Room Seem Familiar.
Your kids will feel more comfortable in their new home if you allow them surround themselves with familiar things, especially in the months immediately following the move. The rug they always stand on when they get up, their nightlight, the soft pillow they love will all be a wonderful comfort in a new environment
Take Your Kids on a Tour of the New Neighbourhood.
To make your move a family adventure, take your children on a tour of the new neighbourhood. Help them find the best routes to their school and other places they’ll want to visit, like parks, the local library, and playgrounds.
When you move somewhere new, forget about getting every last box unpacked right away. Instead, spend that time focusing on your new neighbourhood and your new home and you will all feel a lot better about the move, especially the kids.