Moving with Kids
Depending on your children’s age and character, moving can be a very exciting or daunting experience. Careful planning and using the right approach can make all the difference.
The positive approach
When relocating your family, your attitude to the upcoming changes is very important. Children normally reflect their parents’ response to things. Accentuate the positive and soothe their fears, try to create an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
Do not hide the news from your children or procrastinate telling them, they’ll need time to adjust to the idea. Explain the reason behind the move, it will help gain their acceptance on the matter. Be ready to answer their questions and listen to their concerns; let them know you care about their opinions and feelings. Give them responsibilities during the moving process, allow them to participate and make decisions, it will help ease some of their insecurities.
It is very difficult for children to leave their familiar surroundings and start over in a new home, neighborhood, and school with no friends. Teach them this is a great opportunity for family. Make an extra effort to make this a truly exciting experience for everyone.
Take-along suggestions
Here’s a checklist of things to take in the car with you:
Baby
- Suitable clothing
- Diaper or utility bag
- Blankets
- Disposable diapers
- Nursers with plastic throwaway liners, nipples and pacifiers
- Baby food, formula, fruit juice, water and a cap opener
- Favorite cuddle toy
- Baby toiletries such as powder, lotion, oil and cotton balls
- Safety-approved infant car seat
- First-aid kit
Toddler
- Collapsible stroller
- Child’s portable car toilet
- Safety-approved car seat
- Favorite small toy
