Moving can be a stressful experience for anyone, but it can often be especially hard for kids. Children usually don’t have a choice about moving, and they may not always be excited about the change.
Parents and families can help kids cope with a long-distance move by prioritizing open communication and consistency. Moving can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to feel like an impossible hurdle for you or your kids.
Early and Frequent Communication
Open communication is essential to helping kids cope with a long-distance move. The more they know about what’s happening and what to expect, the more comfortable they’ll feel.
When facing a big move, you can try different communication strategies to help children understand the process and mentally prepare ahead of time. To help kids understand and cope with a big move, parents can:
- Talk about the move early and often so kids have a chance to get used to the idea
- Review the moving process so kids know what to expect at each stage
- Invite children to ask questions and bring up concerns throughout the moving process
- Brainstorm possible problems that might come with the move, and come up with solutions
- Discuss opportunities or benefits available in your family’s new location, so kids have concrete things to look forward to
Frequent communication about a move helps kids process and prepare for this major life change. It’s also a chance to discuss possible difficulties and positive opportunities, so you can talk through them as a family before they come up.
Prioritize Routine and Consistency
It’s easy to let routines go out the window when preparing for or undertaking a long-distance move. Whenever possible, though, it’s best to keep basic routines intact, including:
- Nighttime routines, including bedtime and any standard habits like brushing teeth or storytime
- Regular mealtimes and other family food habits regarding nutrition, snacks, and treats
- Typical activity levels, exercise, and/or outdoor time
When so many things are changing around them, it’s helpful for kids to have some touchstones to rely on. Keeping these elements consistent gives children a sense of stability and helps them transition more smoothly from their old living situation to their new one.
When routines can’t be consistent, it can be helpful to discuss the reasons and let kids know when things will return to normal. Acknowledging temporary changes lets them know that not everything is changing and that deviations from the routine they know aren’t forever.
If you have a long-distance move coming up in Burlington or the area, call Chase Moving and Storage today. We’re your go-to team for expert moving services you can count on. We’ve been in business for over 100 years, and we’re here to help make your relocation as smooth as possible for kids and adults alike. Chase Moving and Storage—THE MOST TRUSTED MOVERS SINCE 1908.
