How to Move with Kids
July 14, 2023
Whenever we change our address — whether it’s a local move, across the country, or we’re relocating internationally — there are aslew of details that will need our attention before Moving Day. And one detail that can sometimes get overlooked? Our children.
If you’re moving this summer while school is out, you’re not alone. Naturally this begs the question, How do we help prepare our kids for a big move? Here a few parenting pro tips to help streamline the process for everyone involved.
- Involve the kids.
Of course, this doesn’t mean they make the final decisions for your move. Rather, involving them in the process means giving them a voice when it’s appropriate to do so. Ask them about their dreams and desires. As you narrow down a new home, or upon deciding a new neighborhood, see what makes their heart skip a beat. Is it a room of their own? Is it a backyard with room for a swing set? Is it a basement or bonus room play area? Walking distance to a new school?
On a smaller scale, consider other ways for them to share their opinions like picking out a paint color, choosing some art work for the wall, or a selecting the perfect pattern of a new throw rug.
- Join others for a good cause.
Whenever you move into the new place, take your kids along to groups such as a local non-profit, an animal rescue shelter, Scouts, the local YMCA or a faith-based rec center, or volunteer for the nearby hospital. Not only does this help make a positive difference in your community, it creates friendships and connections with others who have similar values.
- Find other parents for play dates.
This one might sound easier than it is, but some persistence of introducing yourself in person and in online social circles could yield opportunities to make new friends. Just keep trying to meet up with other parents who have kids of similar ages. You might also try exploring a parent-child class for art, music, swim lessons, or the local park district.
- Visit the old neighborhood.
Before your move, plan a return date to visit friends and neighbors who are getting left behind. Having this date on the calendar can give you something to look forward to in the near future, and also yield some closure to help with the transition in your new home.
- Check out the library.
Helping your kids get a library card at the municipal or even nearby community college library is another way for kids to get connected to a new home. Get to know the librarian and staff to learn all about your local history, discover influential alumni from a nearby high school, and explore more of the region’s culture and cuisine. If it’s a summertime move, consider signing up for a monthly book club or a reading contest to help your kids meet other kids, even before school resumes in the fall.
At Beltmann, we would love to assist you and your family with all of your moving and relocation services. Contact us today to get a quote for your move, and find out why we are the best in the business.
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