Moving can be hard on all the members of the family. As the adult you have a better understanding of why you need to move. You also know that it won’t be the end of the world when you live in a new place. But for children, moving can be incredibly stressful, especially if they have never done it before. It’s important to sit down and talk with your kids about the move well before it happens. Here are four things to keep in mind when talking to your children about moving to a new city.
Explain the Reasons Why You Are Moving
Your kids need to know that you aren’t uprooting their lives for no reason. While you don’t have to explain all of the intricacies of the event to them, you should outline the main reasons why the move is taking place. If you need to move for a new job, to be closer to family, or because you can more easily afford it, let the kids know that. They are less likely to fight with you on the process if they understand how necessary it is.
Give Them Positive Things to Look Forward To
Change is difficult. Your kids won’t want to leave behind the places they know, the schools they attended, and the friends they’ve had. It’s important that you acknowledge that they will be losing things, but it’s also a good idea to point out what they will be gaining. Do some research on the city you are moving to and make a list of the things about it you know your kids will love. Share this with them during the talk to show them you are taking their interests into account.
Let Them Talk About Their Concerns
One of the main things you need to let your children do during this talk is air their concerns. They may not seem like a big deal to you when you are dealing with other stressors regarding the move, but to your children they are very important. You need to listen to their issues, let them know you understand, and acknowledge that they have a right to be upset. Then let them know you will try to work through those issues with them.
Offer to Let Them Be Part of the Process
When looking at new homes in your new city, bring your kids along. Ask them what they would like to have in a house or apartment, and tell them what you are hoping to find. Then let them be a part of the process of picking a new place to live. If you can find a place that checks off items on everyone’s lists, you’ll have a lot less grumbling to deal with about the move.
