Help Kids Acclimate After a Household Move
When moving to a new home, the residential relocation process of unpacking and reorienting can be overwhelming, especially for children. You can, however, help your kids adjust to their new surroundings.
As you unpack your boxes, here are a few tips to help your kids adjust to the move.
Plan for the Transition
Getting your children ready for the move significantly affects how easily they adapt to their new surroundings.
A month before the big move, gently and calmly explain the relocation to your kids. This will give them the time to process the information, but not so long as they dwell and worry.
Explain how the house contents, such as their bedroom furniture, toys, and other special belongings, will move with you. Stress that you are moving as a family, and everyone will be together.
Stay Positive Despite their Fear or Hesitancy
It is overwhelming and stressful for everyone to move into a brand new house, but it is incredibly stressful for children with no prior experience with this type of change.
Having a child express their frustration and irritation through venting their emotions is understandable, so let them vent their frustration. Then remind them of the positive aspects of a new home, such as a park near the new house, new neighbors, a larger yard, or a new bedroom.
Maintain a positive attitude to reassure your child. This will go a long way towards keeping everyone happy.
Follow Routines
Keep family rituals and routines intact after your move, for example, dinner time, bedtime, and movie night, to help keep your children calm during this confusing time.
It might be a good idea to wait until you have settled into your new home before introducing new pajamas or bedding, as these subtle changes can upset sensitive youngsters.
Let Your Kids Make Some Decisions
Involve your child in simple decorating decisions in your new home by giving them some control. Your child’s sense of ownership could increase if they are allowed some choices. For example, consider letting them select the color for their new room or the shower curtain for their bathroom.
Expect Some Regression with Young Ones
When your kids are young, it is common for them to experience temporary regression. During and immediately after the move, be prepared for possible regression. Your child might experience some disruptions to sleep and regression in potty training if they are that age. After you move into your new home, these issues should resolve themselves.
Allow Time
Your child may take weeks or months to acclimate to their new surroundings. Give them the time they need. In the meantime, nurture new and old friendships. Help get them involved in playgroups, clubs, sports, or other activities so they can meet new friends and playmates.
Family Relocation
Let us assist you with packing and heavy lifting during your move so you can focus on preparing and adjusting your young children.
Contact us today for a free estimate.
