If you have been wondering why my posts have been a little scarce these past few weeks, or why the mommy rants I often go on have been shorter than usual, I have to confess we recently moved our home and offices.  Although I have moved quite a few times in the last 10 years, this one felt like a doozie. All of our office supplies, computer equipment and paraphernalia for Soapbox was a mountain of stuff.  But the kid’s books, toys, bikes, dishes, bedding, souvenirs and clothing was more then I had imagined.

It is amazing how much stuff we collect. Thank goodness for garages, because where else would you put extra suitcases, essays from college, old tax returns and Christmas decorations? Everyone says a move is a good time to get rid of stuff, but in cleaning out the backs of closets and under the bed, I just found stuff I forgot I had and made it all new again.

Moving is not easy, and moving with children adds an extra element to an already difficult situation. My son was crying because he couldn’t find which box had his favourite race car was in; my daughter wouldn’t sleep for three days because her favourite books were still not unpacked. Adjusting to all the newness is hard on everyone, especially kids. Forget the fact my husband couldn’t find his deodorant for two days, the new noises, smells, echoes and creaks can often frighten and upset even the most confident of kids.

If a move is in your future and you are worried how your children will react, here are some helpful moving tips when moving with kids from moversdirectory.com.

Expert Moving Advice for Kids of All Ages

1. Do not wait to inform your children about moving. Tell your kids about the move as soon as possible!
It is pretty natural to assume that the less time kids have to think about moving, the easier it will be for your children. However, experts say it is actually the opposite. Kids need time to get used to the idea of moving. Don’t put off telling them about moving.

2. Welcome your children’s questions about moving.
Open lines of communication will go a long way toward helping your children feel comfortable with moving. And it’s okay even if you can’t answer all their questions right now. Your kid’s questions can give you an idea of how they’re feeling about moving — whether they’re excited or uneasy. Some questions may also offer an ideal way to get them involved in the moving process, such as suggesting they get online to locate nearby libraries or parks.

3. Be positive and upbeat about the move.
Your attitude about the move will influence your children’s attitude as well. If you dread moving, then the move will seem dreadful to them too. Be enthusiastic, upbeat, and positive about the new experiences and opportunities in store, and your children will be more likely to feel the same way.

4. Let your children know they can help with the move.
This is a good time to emphasize that the move is a family event and that everyone will be part of the planning, packing, and perhaps even choosing the new home. Start your kids on thinking of things they can do and how to get ready for the move. Assure your kids that their contributions, however small, will be valued and greatly appreciated.

5. Highlight benefits of moving that your kids can understand.
For example, if you say that that you’re moving to another town because the schools there are better, may likely not have much meaning to younger children. However, pointing out that the new schools will have more activities your child will enjoy, such as more sports programs if your child likes sports or a band if your child plays an instrument (or wants to), are reasons that your kids can comprehend and look forward to.

6. Reassure them that their life won’t change dramatically.
Do point out the things that you know will be basically the same in their new home and community, such as having a backyard to play in and going to school. Explain that pets and favourite toys or belongings will go with them. If there are lessons or other activities your kids enjoy now, assure them that you’ll find new instructors or similar programs for them in your new community.

Moving to a new place can greatly affect children’s behaviour and emotions. Moving represents change, which creates issues for every age. Younger children need routine, so throughout the moving period, aim to keep your child’s schedules and routine normal. Even as familiar surroundings change into boxes galore, if breakfast can still start with cereal in a favourite bowl and bedtime is still a ritual of tooth-brushing and bed time stories, your young kids will cope better than you might expect.

Younger kids in the family are likely to be the most eager members of the moving team. You’ll see more positive emotions and behaviour associated with moving from younger kids. They will also look forward to the chance to assist you any way they can. Let your kids help by assigning tasks you know they can handle. Remember that moving will trigger anxiety too, so consider these points:

Preschoolers, toddlers, and young children in general are egocentric. When you show stress, they may think it is something they did. Be mindful of your emotions and reactions around them, and give them extra reassurance.

Even in their excitement, young children will feel sadness at leaving familiar people, places and activities. Help your kids with concrete ways to make the “old place to the new place” transition.

Keep note that the unknown increases anxiety. Sharing and reading children’s picture books about moving is a great way to prepare younger kids for what’s ahead and voice the range of feelings they may have.  The most important thing is to keep them involved and be sensitive to whatever emotions may come.
Now that I am settled, you’ll be hearing more form me.

Standing on my Soapbox,

JB

If you would like to know more about moving with teenagers, find the rest of this article at http://www.moversdirectory.com/before_the_move.html