Moving with Children

Moving can be tough for kids. Make sure you involve your children in moving discussions early so that they are able to feel more in control and less upset about the situation

• Take them with you to see properties you are interested

• Listen to their opinions about the properties you view

• Explain your decisions to them

• Get them involved in the move, by engaging them in conversation about what their new home will be like and what they need to pack, get them excited about the move

• Buy them an address book and encourage them to collect their friends phone numbers and addresses

Before the move

• If there are stairs in the house, make sure there are banisters

• If there is a pool, make sure there is a safety fence installed

• An enclosed backyard is a benefit – make sure there are no loose stones, or sharp objects that may harm your children

• Take a day trip to the new area to have a look at recreation centres, parks and other local facilities

• Give your children time to say goodbye to friends, holding an informal goodbye party for friends and family is a good way to provide closure

Moving Day

• If your children are small, see if you can organise a babysitter, as moving without the children can be less stressful on both parents and children

• If you can’t find a babysitter, make sure you bring toys or games so that the children will be occupied and out of harm’s way

• If your child(ren) would like to be involved in them moving process, encourage them to make a ‘to do’ list

After the move

• Help your kids feel comfortable in their new room and let them have a say in where they want their belongings

• Go for a walk around the neighbourhood with your children to help them familiarise themselves with the new area

• Introduce yourself to your neighbours – they might have children that your kids can play with

• Help your children make new friends – ask them if they’d like to join any clubs or activities in the area

• Help your children keep in touch with old friends – let them use the phone, write letters/emails and visit friends if they aren’t too far away