Moving homes can feel like an adventure, a leap into a new chapter. Yet, for your children, it might seem overwhelming. Talking to them isn’t just about sharing a decision—it’s an opportunity to engage them in the journey. Here are some strategies to make your conversation about your household move with your kids go as smoothly as possible.
Start with the Basics
Children need context more than anything else. Begin by explaining the basics of the move: When you plan to move, where you’re going, and why it’s happening. Avoid complex jargon and paint a picture of this new place instead. It might be a larger house, a city with more parks, or a school that offers new opportunities. Relate these elements to things they love. The biggest park in town might have the best swings, or the new school might have a chess club they can join.
Share Your Feelings
Modeling openness can invite your children to express their emotions. Share your feelings honestly, whether excited about new beginnings or sad about leaving memories behind. Children need to understand that having mixed feelings is okay—a lesson that will help them throughout life. When they see that you also value fond memories of the current home, they, too, can learn to balance their nostalgia with excitement for the future.
Involve Them in the Process
Empower your children by giving them roles in the moving process. Whether it’s packing up their favorite toys or helping to map out their new room, these small responsibilities can make the move seem less like it’s happening to them and more like something they’re participating in. If you’re visiting the new home or area before moving, encourage them to assist in ways that match their curiosity—checking out local libraries or picking out a new family restaurant.
Keep the Familiar Close
Continuity is comforting. Discuss with your children what parts of their routine will stay the same. Perhaps the nightly bedtime story will remain the same, or Saturday nights will continue to be the family popcorn and movie night. Those consistent threads can help alleviate fear of change. You may have a goodbye party with friends or keep some memorabilia from the old place to preserve a sense of history and belonging.
Help Them Stay Connected
Maintaining friendships doesn’t have to be an obstacle. Today’s technology makes it easy to keep in touch with friends through video calls, texting, and even gaming together online. Let your children know that separation doesn’t mean goodbye forever. Encourage them to write letters or send postcards from the new location to continue feeling part of their past community.
Celebrate New Beginnings
Highlight the positive aspects of moving. These could include exploring a new area, meeting new people, or setting up a new room. A positive outlook can be infectious. Create a moving-day tradition, such as a special meal or a fun playlist for the journey. This can help set the tone that this change is not just about leaving something behind but about gaining something exciting and new.
Make the Move with Us
You can depend on us to make your move smoother. We are dedicated to transporting your belongings and making the journey part of your story. Contact us today for a free quote.
