We all know how stressful moving can be, with so much to think about and so much to do, but it’s how moving can impact those who are closest to us - our children and pets that we need to really be aware of.
Here’s some advice on how to make a successful family move.
Moving with Kids
These tips can make it easier for your kids to cope with the move and help make it more of a fun experience for the family.
1. Talk to your kids about the move.
The best way to prepare your kids for the move is to talk about it. Have a family meeting and explain why it’s best for the family and encourage them to talk about their feelings. Don’t wait until the last minute to talk to them as your kids will need time to digest the information and prepare for the move.
2. Stay positive.
It’s easy for the stress of a move to get the best of you, but if you look stressed, your children will feed from it. Try to be enthusiastic, upbeat, and excited and they’ll pick up on it and they’ll start to get excited too.
3. Involve your kids.
Children are much more receptive to moving if they feel included in the process, so give them the opportunity to help. Let them pack up small box of their belongings. Take them on your house-hunting trips. Let them choose the paint color of their new bedroom. This will all make your kids feel special and valuable during the transition.
4. Learn about your new neighbourhood together.
Your kids will be anxious to know about your new neighbourhood, so do some research together. Help them learn everything they can about your new house, their new school, and the new area. Tell them about exciting places and activities your family will be able to explore, like parks, playgrounds, and pools. The more they know, the better they’ll adapt.
5. Help them plan their goodbyes.
Depending on the age of your children, saying goodbye may be the most difficult part of the moving process. Remind them of all the ways they can stay in touch with their friends after the move. For younger children, explain how you can send letters or pictures in the mail. If they are old enough, consider opening up an e-mail or social media account so they can easily stay connected. When it’s finally time to say goodbye, a simple farewell party or slumber party can be a good way to give them closure. Be sure to write down a list of places to go and people to see – your kids will feel better knowing they have a chance to say goodbye before the move.
Moving with Pets
If moving is a stressful time for your family, then it’ll have an impact on your pets too. Here are some tips on moving home with pets:
1. Talk to your vet.
Leading up to the move, visit your vet to make sure that your pets are healthy and up to date on vaccinations. And ask for a copy of their medical history too.
2. Update your pet ID tags.
It’s important that your pet is wearing proper ID and license tags. Your pets will be exposed to new and unfamiliar places, so if they get lost, it’s vital that they are tagged with your current contact information.
3. Seclude your pet from moving day.
Moving day brings an endless stream of chaos, which can be stressful for your pets. Try to keep them in a separate, quiet room away from the flurry of activity until everything is packed up.
4. Make pet-friendly travel plans.
Before you set off for your new home, research the safest travel options for your pets.
5. Welcome your pets to your new home.
It’s tempting to set your pets free to explore your new home, but it’s best to get them used to the new place one room at a time – especially if you’re dealing with cats. Start with a room that has their food, water, litter boxes and favorite toys. After they’ve settled into their new surroundings, you can slowly introduce them to other parts of the house as well.
Contact Jeremy Osborne Real Estate for more home moving hints and tips.
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