Moving with kids is not an easy task.
When parents decide to move, children often find it difficult to leave their familiar homes.
We get it; the relocation of a child disrupts their sense of control in their environment as well as their circle of friends.
To make the moving process as smooth as possible for the child, parents should spend plenty of time explaining what is happening beforehand.
Let’s elaborate though!
Present the move as a positive change
Explain to your child that moving is the best decision for the entire family. Both parents must be equally enthusiastic about the move to convey this enthusiasm to their children.
It is important to present a united front and explain why moving is the best decision, even if the reasons are not ideal.
Explain the process in detail
Talk in detail about the moving process. No matter what age your child is, explaining what will happen step by step makes the whole idea of moving clearer.
To help children feel more prepared for what will happen, it is important to tell them that their belongings will be packed in boxes, that a truck will transport the boxes to the new home, that they will travel by car and everything else they need to know.
Visit your new neighborhood before moving with kids
When you move into a new neighborhood, make sure your children are familiar with it. Regardless of whether you can go inside your new home, you can still visit the city and find favorite restaurants, playgrounds, schools, and parks by going outside your home.
Getting to know the new teacher and touring the new school beforehand is also a good idea if your child is switching schools.
Let the child open up
Let your child talk about their feelings. Toddlers and preschoolers often ask about their prized possessions, whereas school-aged children are more concerned with making friends and having the opportunity to do their favorite activities.
For them to enjoy sports, dance classes, or other activities that interest them, they need assurance that they can do so.
Answer all their questions
It’s normal for children to have many questions and concerns, so answer them all, even if they sometimes repeat the same thing over and over again.
Keep the same habits
Be steady and calm during this big change, such as waking up at the same time, reading a bedtime story, or moving the child from the crib to the big bed. Instill the idea that the whole family will work together and support one another.
Be sure to keep in touch
To keep the child from feeling isolated, you keep in touch with his friends and relatives via Skype, emails, and telephones; If possible, don’t change all the old furniture so that it feels comfortable.
Prepare for regression
It is common for children to regress to previous behaviors during times of change. For example, the child may wet the bed or want to sleep with you at night. A mental health professional might be able to help.
Accept their sadness
Changes in home, friends, teachers, and school may cause the children to go through a grief process similar to grief. There are many ways in which the child can experience loss during this time. Allow them to experience the change, rather than making them feel better.
Some children have trouble sleeping, others gain or lose weight, and others whose school performance drops. Don’t force the child to be happy, but be vigilant; moving is a stressful situation that requires special attention and patience; Admit that you are sad about the change, but show optimism.
And, last but not least…
Create excitement without unrealistic expectations when moving with kids
It’s your attitude that will matter the most; you set the example!
Contact us today to explore our Relocation Services and commence your exciting journey with your family in Switzerland!
Explore Our Relocation Services
