Unless you are an unflappable Type-A personality who has everything figured out or a totally laid back dude who worries about nothing, moving is a stressful experience. Toss a couple of squirmy, high energy youngsters who think they know everything into the mix, and you might be in some trouble. This is what nervous breakdowns are made of. It does not have to be that way, however. With a little preparation, a great sense of humor and maybe some margaritas in the blender, you can do this.
Here are five tips that can help.
Tip One:
Make sure you prepare them appropriately. If you have teens or older children, you will want to share the news early enough that they can plan to say their goodbyes to local friends and get used to the idea. Younger children, on the other hand, are prone to thinking that everything you talk about is about to happen right at that moment. Timing is everything, and make sure you really sell the idea. Be enthusiastic and positive. They will get their cues on how to react from you.
Tip Two:
Get your kids involved. Take them to see the new house before you move in. Let them plan their own bedroom design, and ask for their input on what you should do with communal space. Drive around the neighborhood and look for fun places for pizza and shopping. If your move will be a long distance one, use the Internet.
Tip Three:
Let them be emotional. A little separation anxiety is normal. Better Homes and Gardens suggests making scrapbooks and holding going away parties. These types of activities will allow your kids to say goodbye to the people and things they will miss the most.
Tip Four:
Keep them busy. If your kids are really small and useless when it comes to manual labor, have a friend or relative care for them on moving day. If they are old enough to carry a box, put them to work. They will appreciate the opportunity to be involved, and having specific duties will keep them from bothering you. Give your children the task of unpacking their own belongings, making their beds and organizing their new bedrooms.
Tip Five:
Get excited for school. Check out their school district ahead of time, and get them enrolled. Understand that switching schools is hard, and making new friends can be even harder. Be there for them, and help them adjust.  En
courage them to get involved in all the things they loved at their old school, including sports, music and other activities.
