A family move can be a time of immense stress that can sometimes affect a child’s functioning. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry reports that kids who move frequently may experience difficulty at school. Even a single move could cause distress, depression or anxiety for children. You can take some steps to help make a move more seamless and tolerable for your child.
Maintain Daily Routines
Maintain as much consistency as possible during the preparation period. The National Network for Child Care recommends keeping regular nap and meal times, especially for younger children. Keep any security items accessible, including blankets or stuffed animals, and pack your child’s items last. Avoid making other changes, such as toilet training, immediately before or after your move.
Include Your Child in the Process
KidsHealth asserts that you should discuss the move with your child. The National Mental Health Information Center suggests telling your child about the move as soon as possible and including him in the process. Give him packing responsibilities that are appropriate for his age. This can help him feel as though he has some control over the situation, and may help lessen anxiety and distress. Involve him in the planning process for the new house. Ask him how he wants to arrange his new room, or allow him to pick out a new and special item to go in it.
Familiarize Child With the New Community
If you are moving nearby, take your child to see your new home. Explore the community together and visit new schools ahead of time. Allow your child to take pictures of the new area and encourage her to show them to friends, suggests the National Network for Child Care. If you are moving far away, show your child where the new community is located on a map. HGTV’s Front Door recommends marking relevant landmarks to discuss and point out to your child once you have moved. If available, show her pictures and videos of the new area.
Provide Emotional Support
Understand that moving can cause emotional stress for your child and empathize with him. Reassure him that when you pack his toys, they are still his and will be present at the new home. If possible, tell him that he can return to your old community to visit friends and loved ones and that he can keep in touch by writing letters, emailing and talking on the phone. Consider throwing a “farewell party” to allow your child to say goodbye to friends. Encourage him to take pictures of your old home. For young children, Guided Growth suggests reading books or stories about moving to your child. Books about other people who have moved can help explain the process and provide some reassurance.
References
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Children and Family Moves
- National Network for Chlid Care: Moving to a New Home
- National Mental Health Information Center: Your Child's Mental Health--Moving, Easing the Transition
- HGTV's Front Door: Preparing Children for a Move
- Guided Growth: Preparing Children for a Move
