Tips On Preparing Kids For A House Move
*Collaborative post
Moving house can be an exciting and stressful time for your kids. Younger children may find it hard to understand, so it’s best to prepare them the best that you can. You’ll already have lots to do, so if you can keep your kids happy- that’s a weight off your mind!
1 . Use books
Children’s books can be beneficial to help kids to understand a house move. Try reading your children ‘Topsy and Tim: Move House’ by Jean Adamson. It’s a straightforward story that goes through all the stages of a house move from the removal vans to unpacking at the new home. Spoiler- they do find the cat at the end, so you’re kids don’t need to worry! Children often find it easy to relate to characters in books, so it can be a really helpful way to process their emotions.
- Use toys
With younger children, it can be useful to act out the house move using their toy trucks or teddies. Explain to them what’s going to happen and allow them to help you act out the process too! Many children might be a little frightened or concerned, and this is entirely normal. Allow them space to come to terms with their emotions and give them all the comfort and support that they need.
- Pack together
If your children are a little older, encourage them to pack their items with you, and talk to them about the process as you go. Allowing them to pack can help them to feel involved and accept leaving their old room behind. With younger children, as you pack their toys, ensure that they understand that you are not throwing them away. Get them excited and tell them what an adventure the toys are going to have in the removal van! The sooner you get packing, the better. For those looking for a good removal company, MyBekins offer some excellent services.
- Arrange a nice goodbye
If your children are moving to a new school– it can be a good idea to arrange a nice goodbye for them and their friends. Why not arrange a fun playdate or a gathering? Moving school can be a little stressful for kids. Assure them that it’s going to be so much fun to meet lots of new friends and a great new teacher. Help them to stay in touch with old friends the best that you can too.
- Keep their old furniture
To help your kids to settle into a new place, it can be a good idea to keep as many of their old belongings as possible. Having the same bed and cupboards etc. can help them to feel a sense of familiarity. Arrange the items similarly and let them help you to pick out any new items. Make decorating your kids bedroom a fun game and try to involve them. Be patient if they don’t adjust immediately and are upset. Encourage them to talk about their emotions if they feel anxious or sad. Help them to create new fun memories in the new house right away.
