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Children often struggle when their family relocates. Something that may seem like a normal, grown-up process can be very confusing and scary for little ones. This change can uproot their daily routine and the sense of security they felt in their home since it was always a constant in their lives. A move usually carries many mixed emotions for children, which is why it's important to help them adjust through this difficult time. Here are some easy-to-implement ideas to help your children say goodbye before leaving home.
Published: November 15, 2022
Children often struggle when their family relocates. Something that may seem like a normal, grown-up process can be very confusing and scary for little ones. This change can uproot their daily routine and the sense of security they felt in their home since it was always a constant in their lives. A move usually carries many mixed emotions for children, which is why it’s important to help them adjust through this difficult time. Here are some easy-to-implement ideas to help your children say goodbye before leaving home.
As soon as you know you are moving, tell your children right away. This will give them time to adjust to the idea and share their feelings. Have daily conversations about what they can expect and try to keep the tone positive. Help them get excited about the move by telling them about the fun features of their new neighborhood or home. It’s okay to tell your children that you’re feeling a bit sad about the move too. This way, they know it’s normal to feel this way, and they aren’t alone!
End your time in your home by doing the things that you and your children love. This will be a chance for them to make lasting memories in their current home, surrounded by the activities they enjoy. Help prepare them mentally for the move by assuring them that they’ll find new favorite pastimes in their next house!
A wonderful way to maintain a connection with the past, as well as keep old memories alive, is through pictures. If you have children, a memorable and creative way to help your children keep cherished memories of their old home is to create a photo collage using their favorite pictures. This activity offers both a therapeutic outlet for their emotions and a tangible keepsake that captures the essence of what they’re leaving behind. It’s an excellent project that can be easily completed online, offering a personalized touch to their scrapbook or as a standalone memory piece. providing your child with not only a fun activity whilst you’re packing up.
Capturing memories of their old home is crucial for children. One way to do this is by having them record a video diary of the home using a smartphone. They can film a tour, special activities, or even just themselves talking about their favorite memories. Not only will this provide closure, but it’ll also occupy them during the hectic moving time.
Before you leave, plan a “goodbye party.” They can invite friends from the neighborhood and have a cookout in the backyard, or, if they prefer, you can simply have one last special dinner as a family, complete with a family sleepover in the den. The idea is to celebrate beautiful memories of your home before making new ones in another house.
It’s always a nice gesture to have your children write a letter to the new homeowners. They can reflect on all of the wonderful times they had in that home and how many great memories were shared there. It’s also encouraging for the new family to know that they will love the house just as much as your kids did.
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