Moving with kids can be a significant change for them. It’s important to involve them in the process, communicate openly about the move, and address any concerns they might have. Creating a sense of excitement about the new home and location can help them adjust better. Also, try to maintain routines and familiar items to provide a sense of stability during the transition.
New town, new friends, and new school are all very scary for a teenager moving. Teenagers are very vulnerable to feelings of insecurity and working to establish their identity. Moving can seem like the end of the world to them. You may experience doors slamming and I want to go home, which many parents will start to worry whether moving is the right choice. They can experience cultural change, difference in clothing styles, or social customs. Time will help and planned activities. Most teens will adjust fine. The good news is that kids that move around are more adjusted to meeting others and accepting change.
Tell your child as soon as you can.
Let your child know about the move as soon as you can. Tell them the location of the move and why you are moving. You can also look on line to see what exciting new adventures they have to offer in the city you are moving too. The more time they can process the information the better the adjustment. They will be experiencing new neighborhoods and new schools which is very traumatic for teenagers. Give your teenager as much decision-making power as possible. Let them help with decision making about them with schools and extracurricular activities
Fears of Moving-Listen
Ask them why they are reluctant to move and let them express their concerns and frustrations. You want them to speak openly and honestly about the move. Don’t ignore their feelings and concerns. You want to ease their moving anxieties and let them know their opinion matters. You want them to know you trust and respect their feelings and dreams.
Decision Making Process
Visit the New Place: If possible, visit the new home before the move so they can familiarize themselves with the new surroundings. Try to maintain familiar routines as much as possible, including meal times and bedtime routines. This can provide a sense of stability during the transition. Pack a “Moving Day” Bag: Have a bag with their favorite toys, snacks, and comfort items for moving day and the first few days in the new home. After moving, explore the neighborhood together. Find parks, playgrounds, and other kid-friendly spots to help them feel more at home. Arrange their belongings in a similar way to their previous room. Familiar items can help them feel more comfortable. Display enthusiasm about the new home and the opportunities it offers. Your positive attitude can be contagious. Understand that it might take time for kids to adjust. Be patient and provide emotional support during the transition. Prioritize unpacking their belongings so they have a sense of familiarity and comfort sooner. Acknowledge and celebrate achievements as they adjust, such as making a new friend or finding a favorite spot in the new area.
Send off Party
Throwing a going away party or a weekend get together with their close friends is a great way to say good bye to their friends. Have a photo booth to post pictures of their send off party. Slumber party or a lake or beach getaway is a great time to spend time with their close friends. They could also plan a trip for their best friend to come visit them soon. Have their friends give them sealed letters to open when they arrive at their new home. Help your kids keep in touch with their old friends through phone calls, video chats, or letters. Encourage your kids to make new friends by attending local events, playdates, or joining community activities
Design A Floor Plan for their Room
You and your kids can help decorate and design their new room. When your child is in charge of their new room, they may be more excited about moving in. You could make a detailed digital floor plan of their room. You could buy new décor for their room to make them feel more like their place. They can pick out their classes too. Let them participate in the moving process by packing their belongings, choosing decor for their new rooms, or even helping with minor decisions.
You want them to have the self-confidence and excitement for their brand-new home. This could also be a great time to become closer to them. Take the opportunity to spend more time one on one.
