Children And Moving

Moving can be a very traumatic event for a child. It usually involvesserviceto a strange city andserviceaway from everything they have ever known. If the move is a result of a divorce, it can be even worse since they will also have to deal with the loss of a parent. If your child is of teenage years, they will have to deal with trying to fit in with a new social crowd and having to make new friends. serviceis never easy, but there are some things you can do to help your children cope with the move.

Young Children

Young children need the security of familiar surroundings. When you first move, stick to the same routine. Have dinner at the same time that you always have, go to bed at the same time and watch the same television programs.
Let your child have some input on how their room is decorated. If they are resistant to any change at all, try to duplicate what their room used to look like,

Older Children

Help them plan for their new school. Visit the school and scout it out. Give your child as much information as possible so that they can be ready.
Find out how your children are adjusting to the new school and social environment. Do not just assume that all is well, children can put up a brave front.
Encourage your child to keep contact with friends. If possible, plan visits with their old friends and let them keep up over the phone.
Encourage your child to take part in extracurricular activities. Sports and after school programs are a great way for them to make friends.