Make child’s play of your next move W
Pack a first-day box Have each child pack a box of things (favorite toys, books or stuffed animals) that they will want the first day you move into your new home. Have the movers pack these boxes last so that you can easily access them when you arrive and begin unloading boxes. If you are moving a long distance, have each child pack some items in a bag to keep them entertained during the trip.
hen adults decide to move, it’s often to pursue an exciting opportunity or discover a new place. For children, moving can be much harder to understand as they may be leaving the only place they’ve ever called home. As you travel through adulthood, the unknown becomes more alluring. You’ve been through major life changes before. That’s why it’s important to take some steps to make this major transition easier on your kids. To help make moving easier for the youngsters in your household, the moving experts at Penske truck rental offer these tips to help your children adapt to a new place, along with some practical moving advice for families:
Communicate It can be difficult to tell your kids that they’ll be moving, so it’s important to make sure they know they can talk to you about their feelings regarding the move. Try to keep the conversation positive. Tell them about all the fun things they’ll be able to do in their new home, while acknowledging that they’ll feel some sadness about leaving their old one.
You think moving is hard on adults? Imagine what it’s like for children. ARA
Help them say goodbye Organize a going-away party for your children and their friends, and work with the parents of their friends to gather contact information so the kids can keep in touch after you move. Take inventory Take a minute with each child to go through toys and clothes to see what can be donated. By letting them help with these decisions, you can eliminate any angst that might come if they realize something they wanted was left behind when you get to your new home.
Form a moving team To help your move go quickly and smoothly, create roles for older children so that they can help out. If possible, arrange for someone to watch younger children so that you can focus on performing moving-related tasks. Using hired movers will also help take some of the pressure off and allow you to tend to your kids. Younger children may be thrilled by the chance to see the moving truck up close, so take the time to show it to them.
Help them feel at home Show your kids around parks and other attractions in your new community to help them feel excited about their new home. Plan ahead to get them enrolled in activities with other children so they can quickly make new friends. Explain to them that making new friends takes time and they shouldn’t feel discouraged if it doesn’t happen for them right away. Communicate with their teachers to see if there’s anything special you can do to help your children feel more comfortable at school. By doing the little things to help your children cope with the tough parts of moving, you’ll put them in a position to acclimate to their new home more quickly. For more helpful moving tips, visit www.pensketruckrental.com. —ARA CONTENT
16 | TENNESSEE HOMES | APRIL - MAY 2013 | www.Tennessean.com/TNHomes