You finally found your new home, and it’s time to start packing as you prepare for your move. Are your children as enthusiastic as you? Probably not, but there are things you can do to make the transition easier for them, which also means it will be less stressful for you. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving out of state, to another town, or just a short distance away from your current neighborhood, children (especially adolescents) are rarely excited, because it means leaving behind friends and familiar surroundings.
These tips can help make the change easier for everyone.
1. Remember they will take their cues from you. The younger they are, the more they will depend on you to demonstrate how they should be feeling. Be positive; let them know why you’re excited about the move. Attitudes are contagious!
2. Let older children have a say in planning how their new bedroom will look. The more personal it is for them, the better (and quicker) they will adjust to new surroundings.
3. Have them help you organize a moving sale. Motivate them to participate by saying the funds from the sale will be used for some family fun - perhaps a trip to a nearby tourist attraction? - when you get to your new place. Encourage them to purge some of their own belongings by letting them keep whatever cash it generates at the sale.
4. Check with the Chamber of Commerce in your new city and order a Newcomer’s Guide or any other information they can provide about cultural, social, educational and entertainment activities in the new town. Have the kids help make a list of the things they would most like to see and do when they get there. This will give them something to look forward to.
5. If it’s feasible, spend a day, or even a weekend, touring your new town. Drive around your new neighborhood; visit parks, locate schools, libraries, grocery stores, shopping centers, etc. so there will be a sense of familiarity when you move to your home.
Colleen Donlevy-Burns, Your Realtor Advisor For Life, is a Relocation Specialist, and she’s dedicated to making your experience as stress-free as possible. Call her at (407) 325-2873.