Moving with Younger Children

Telling Younger Children About a Move

Children have different concerns about moving at different ages. For preschoolers and younger children (up to age 9) family is the center of their lives. They will be curious about moving, and may have concerns such as being left behind and getting lost. Paying attention and understanding those concerns will make the transition as easy as possible for children.

How to Tell Younger Children About A Move

1. Explain where you are moving and why.

Be short and to the point when trying to explain the move to younger children. Use words they can understand such as, "Daddy got a promotion at work and we're moving to where his new office will be", or "since Grampa got sick, Grandma needs our help. We're moving to be closer to them", or "we need a bigger house and we've found a place that has what we all need."

2. 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 are better, that may not have much meaning to younger children. However, pointing out that the new school 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, are reasons that your kids can comprehend and look forward to.

3. Use maps and pictures as illustration to make the move more concrete.

If your children can understand maps, have one that shows your new community where you are moving to. Together, locate where you will be living and places of interest around your new place. If you are moving far away, have a map that shows where you are now and where you're moving. Help them trace the distance and even plot out a route you might take when moving from here to there. If possible, have photographs of the community and your new home that your kids can appreciate.

4. Reassure them that their lives won't change dramatically after the move

Point out 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 favorite 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.

Diggins & ROSE is happy to answer any moving questions you have free of charge at any time. Call for free information about moving or  request a quote now online.

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