Moving and Children

The following tips often help children adjust before, during and after a family relocates.

Tips

Include the children in making plans for the move. For example, take them house-hunting with you.

Help your child(ren) learn about the new area.

Through play-acting with dolls, boxes and a wagon, children can get a feeling of "moving".

Let the children help decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.

Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.

Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, some clothing, and a few favorite toys for the move.

Take a "family break" as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don't try to do everything when you arrive.

Parents should spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.

Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child(ren) to school the first few days may ease tension.

Any lingering abnormalities (loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, diarrhea, menstrual disorder) should be reported to a doctor.

If your move involves suburban to rural, or vice versa, caution children about new situations they will face.

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