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Moving With Children
Moving is an exciting time full of commotion that can be tough
on everyone, including the children. The impact the move will
have on kids usually is age-related. Babies, toddlers and young
children tend to deal well with moving, while adolescents may
resent and resist the move. Here are a few timeless tips that
may help all families on the move:
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Clearly explain why you’re moving. Children
like to be in the loop and talking to them about the move, what
it means and what it will entail can help limit move-related
anxiety.
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Familiarize the children with the new location
by providing them with exciting information about the area.
Some useful tools include maps, news stories and pictures. Highlight
some of the location’s points of interest that you think
your children will appreciate, like an amusement park or nearby
lake.
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Make sure everyone has packed and clearly
labeled their most-used items and keep these items easily accessible.
For a small child, this could include a few favorite toys or
a security item. Older kids may not be able to survive without
certain electronics or favorite clothing items.
Moving Babies and Toddlers
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Babies and toddlers typically are easy to
move, but they also can become confused or scared. Consider
the following tips for them:
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Pack their rooms last and keep favorite toys
and other must-haves close at hand.
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Try to stick to established routines like
lunchtime and naptime.
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Once in the new house, young children may
need to be reminded about which household appliances are dangerous
and other safety precautions or rules they learned at the previous
house.
Moving Preschoolers and School-Age Children
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Kids this age can get excited about moving
and may be eager to help. If you’re moving with school-age
children, consider the following tips:
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Let the children help pack their own rooms
and once you’re in the new house, let them help decorate
and arrange their new rooms.
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Locate the recreational facilities and children’s
group activity centers. Once you’re in the new location,
enrolling your children in group activities can help them quickly
make new friends.
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Adolescents are deeply involved in their social
network. Child development experts suggest these kids receive
news of the move as soon as possible. They will need more time
to get used to idea and to say good-bye to their friends. Some
other tips to consider:
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Spend time together getting to know the new
area by driving around and noticing what other kids are doing
and wearing. Discuss how you can help your child “fit
in.”
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If your child is a senior in high school,
some child-development experts suggest letting the child stay
behind to finish the school year. These experts emphasize that
this decision only makes sense if your child’s living
conditions will be appropriate and safe.
Moving is an exciting time when families tend to work together
to make sure the adventure goes smoothly. Your real estate professional
has helped many families move and is a great resource for more
information about moving with children.
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