Helping Kids Adjust to a New Home: Activities and Strategies
While moving is an ordinary life event, it can still be challenging for the children in your household. Because children are creatures of habit, the new surroundings, environment, and people can make them feel stressed, uncertain, and grieved.
Luckily, there are many ways to help your children transition to their new life. At Adam’s Moving Service, we are one of the top-rated residential movers in Seattle, so we understand all the challenges that come with moving.
Prepare Them for the Move
It’s important to tell your kids once you have determined that your family is moving. Informing them of the change will give them time to process their feelings and think through the potential changes. Keep the lines of communication open by talking openly and honestly about the move and addressing their questions and concerns. Let them know it’s okay to be sad, scared, and nervous about the move.
Visit the New Area
If you have decided on a new home, visit the home and neighborhood as much as possible. Becoming more familiar with the area will help your children visualize where they will eat, sleep, and play. If your new home is far enough away that you won’t be able to visit, showing photos and videos of the property is helpful for them to get an idea of where they will be living.
Involve Your Kids in Moving Day Plans
Involving kids in moving day plans will help them get excited and know what to expect. Discuss all the plans for the moving day and help them pack their belongings. Plan fun events throughout the day, such as snack or treat breaks, dance parties, or even games to help lighten the mood. Even though packing and moving is a hectic process, sticking to their familiar bed and snack time routines will comfort them during a stressful time.
Many families hold popular events to say “goodbye” to their old homes. Though traditions vary, consider having a farewell picnic in the backyard or a tour of the house, allowing each child to see everything one last time before they leave.
Pack Familiar and Frequently-Used Items Separately
Children cherish many items from their bedrooms and need them to be comfortable in their new space. Packing a box of their well-loved and most-used items, such as stuffed animals, toys, and books, will make their beloved items readily accessible for unpacking once you get to your new home.
Let Them Plan Out Their New Room
To help your child get more excited about the move, allow them to pick out their new room and help them plan what it will look like. Consider allowing them to pick out a new piece of furniture or decor for their rooms, helping them to gain a sense of ownership and control over their new space.
Encourage New Connections
Encouraging new connections will help your child adjust to their new home and environment. Start by exploring your new neighborhood together by playing at parks and playgrounds. Engage in community events and enroll in activities, such as sports and clubs, to help them meet peers with similar interests. Encourage your kids to invite classmates over after school.
Make Things Easy by Hiring Trustworthy and Hardworking Residential Movers
Moving is stressful enough for the whole family; hiring Adam’s Moving Service makes things easier. As top-rated residential movers in Seattle, we prioritize customer satisfaction and quality work. We offer packing, unpacking, labor services, and more. Get your free moving quote from us today!
