How to Help Children Adjust to a Move

Published: April 15, 2023

Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but for children, it can also be a time of uncertainty and stress. Children may feel anxious about leaving their familiar surroundings and friends behind, and adjusting to a new environment can take time. As a parent, you can help your children ease the transition and make the move a positive experience for the whole family. Here are some tips on how to help children adjust to a move.

Involve Your Children in the Process

Make your children feel involved in the moving process by including them in the planning and decision-making. Show them pictures of the new home and neighborhood and discuss what they’re looking forward to. Let them help with packing and moving boxes, and give them choices about how they want to decorate their new room. This will help them feel more in control of the situation and excited about the move.

Keep Routines Consistent

Moving to a new home can disrupt your children’s routines and schedules, which can be stressful for them. Try to keep as many routines consistent as possible, such as meal times, bedtimes, and activities. This will help your children feel more secure and grounded during the transition.

Make Time for Goodbyes

Saying goodbye to friends, teachers, and neighbors can be emotional for children. Encourage your children to express their feelings and make time for them to say goodbye to the important people in their lives. Host a farewell party or playdate, exchange contact information, and take pictures to create mementos of their old home and friends.

Explore the New Neighborhood

Take your children on a tour of the new neighborhood and show them the nearby parks, playgrounds, and attractions. Point out the local library, movie theater, and restaurants, and encourage them to get excited about the new experiences that await them. This will help them feel more comfortable and familiar with their new surroundings.

Stay Positive

Children take their cues from their parents, so it’s important to stay positive and optimistic about the move. Emphasize the positive aspects of the new home and neighborhood, and reassure your children that they will make new friends and have new adventures. This will help them feel more confident and excited about the move.

Moving to a new home can be a challenging time for children, but with a little patience and support, you can help them adjust and thrive in their new environment. By involving your children in the process, keeping routines consistent, making time for goodbyes, exploring the new neighborhood, and staying positive, you can help your children feel more comfortable and secure during the transition.

For more information, visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Houston Gulf Coast.