Relocating Your Family?

Whether it’s for a new job or a better living situation, moving with your family can be a positive in the long run. However, in the short term it can have a serious impact on your children. Upending everything they’ve known in their young lives is a major change for kids, and it can lead to behavioral problems, difficulties at school and harm to their psychological well-being. Although these issues can go away as they grow up, it’s always a good idea to do what you can in the here and now to make the moving process less stressful or traumatic for them.

For example, it’s best to let your kids know about the move as soon as possible. This gives them time to grapple with the idea and start thinking ahead to the future instead of dwelling on what they will lose. If you can, take them on a trip to your new neighborhood ahead of time so they can find the playground, library or other potential favorite spots. Let them make certain decisions about the move, even if it’s something as small as the color of the packing tape you use. A little bit of control over the situation can help ease the transition.

Even if moving is a net positive for your family, not everyone will see it that way at first. For more ideas about moving services and helping your kids process adjusting to a new home, see the accompanying resource.