Next to death and divorce, moving is one of the most stressful life events. This whole process can be very traumatizing, which is what you must think about when moving with kids.
Next to death and divorce, moving is one of the most stressful life events. This whole process can be very traumatizing, which is what you must think about when moving with kids. You can get kids ready emotionally and physically for a move by explaining to them, in detail, the situation. You can create a great adventure, rather than an experience that is traumatic, when the correct communication is used by parents to assist the kids' view of moving. The whole process can be stress free and smooth if the activities and the act of moving is made fun for the kids.
Moving can be a positive experience for kids if you plan ahead. Food, games, and media are three things that can entertain kids during a move. Children will have more fun if they can have snacks that they can't normally have. You don't want everyone bouncing up and down with elevated energy levels while stuck in the car, but adding some fun treats along with the healthier meals can turn a trip into an adventure.
Additional items that can keep kids busy and help them enjoy the move include: books, toys, games, and crafts. Much like snacks, it is an advantage if these are new things for the kids so that their attention will be focused on the novelty. Kids will be happily entertained for long periods of time if they have new crayons, paper, and puzzles to play with. When the kids can have fun, then it's a lot less stress for everyone else.
Kids will be able to enjoy the move if they have DVDs and mp3 players to keep them occupied. You can get a couple of hours of peace and quiet while they catch up on a movie they haven't seen; while the older kids will enjoy listening to their own music and getting "away" from the rest of the family for a little while.
It is paramount for the parents to maintain good attitudes in order to achieve a beneficial and enjoyable experience for their youngsters. Don't think everything will be ideal; however, providing lots of entertaining games and snacks can help. Attempt to not let your stress affect everyone; don't nitpick with the kids, as they can be very flexible, but a move can still cause them stress. If you have a good attitude about the move, then the kids will feel better about it too.