There are so many details that go into moving we often forget the emotional aspect of transitioning to a new home. For children this can be especially difficult. Often for children, the house and neighborhood they currently live in may be the only home they have ever known. Moving can be a particularly stressful event for a child. Here are some tips to help ease the transition: 1. Have a family meeting After you have made your plans to move, hold a family meeting to talk with your children. Share your feelings about the move and encourage your children to do the same. Expressing the positive aspects of the move can be helpful, also share that you may be feeling a little nervous too. 2. Make room plans Take your children to visit their new home or at least show them pictures. This may help ease their concerns. Let them be involved in their new home by picking out the paint colors or the furniture layout of their new space. Children will often be more receptive if they feel included in the process. 3. Make a map of local points of interest Your new home most likely has some fun things for children nearby. Go online or draw a map showing your new home and places that your children may enjoy like the library, soccer field, playground and other fun places. This will help your child feel excited and help them learn more about their new neighborhood. 4. Visit the new school If possible take your children to visit their new school before their first day. It will be helpful to meet the teachers and see the school’s surroundings beforehand. 5. Throw a “See You Soon” party One of the most difficult things about moving is saying goodbye. Hosting a “See You Soon” party helps your children understand that goodbye is not forever. Make sure to get all of their friend’s phone numbers and email addresses so they can keep in touch. Remember to take a lot of pictures at the party as well. Sending the photos to the friends they have left behind is another way of keeping in touch. Most of all you should try to keep things as normal as possible. You may need to hug a little more and check in with older children to help ease the anxiety. Soon they will have new friends and new things to look forward to. ]]>