Moving to a new city or even a new home can be very upsetting for children. Having to say goodbye to neighbors, school friends and teachers can be overwhelming and scary. Children often think of being the ‘new kid’ with a negative connotation and they may have anxiety about making new friends. Maintaining a positive attitude about the move and find things that they can get excited about, like decorating a new room or having a bigger yard to play in, are crucial to helping kiddos make the transition.
1. Start packing early
Give children plenty of time so that they may feel like they have some control over the situation by allowing them to help pack, especially their own things. If you plan to get rid of any of their items, be sure to do it with their permission or when they are not around to see it go.
2. Provide Reassurance
Reassure them that they can still maintain the friendships they have made at their former school or neighborhood. Invite those kids over periodically and utilize social media to stay in touch on a regular basis.
3. Say Goodbye
Say goodbye to the old house. On the morning of the move, take the time to walk through the empty house and say goodbye, it will help your child have closure.
4. Find a Routine
Be sure to establish a new routine quickly in your new house. Routines provide stability and young children especially do better with a routine
5. Get Them Settled
Set up their room/space quickly. Having familiar things around them will be comforting in a new space and assure them they are ‘home’.
6. Get to Know the New Teacher
Make early connections at the child’s new school. Let the teacher know if your child is having any anxiety, is shy, has difficulty making friends, etc. This heads up will give the teacher a good understanding of how they can help put your child at ease.
Need more ideas? Visit these posts for more.
Relocating to Salt Lake City? Here is Where to Start!
Which Neighborhood Fits Your Lifestyle?
8 Affordable Things To Do in Salt Lake City in the Spring & Summer