Moving from one home to another can be difficult. It can be particularly hard for children, who have made friends, like their school, and have put down roots. Sometimes, a move is necessary, whether it's because of a new job opportunity or to move closer to family. It takes some time to adjust, but there are a few things that can be done to make the process easier.

Give Them Time to Process

Give your children some time to process the idea of the move before the actual moving day. Telling them last minute will likely only enhance their anxieties, and may affect how much they trust you. Of course, you can give yourself a few days to adjust to the idea before telling them, but giving them time to process the idea can make everything easier. Make sure you tell them in a private setting, so they don't have to worry about how others may react. Try to avoid telling them right before bed, as the nervousness they may feel might make it hard for them to sleep. Also try not to tell them before a big event, like a baseball game or an important test. Your timing can make a difference in how the news is received. 

Understand Their Emotions

Children will likely express a range of emotions when you break the news that you are moving. Even if you aren't moving far, it is an entirely new concept for your children. They may be excited, but they are likely to be sad and angry. They may not understand your reasoning, and they may only be able to see the negative aspects of it. It's important to allow them to express their emotions, and give them a safe space to express them. If you can relate to those feelings, tell them, or tell them a story of a time where you felt what they are feeling now. It may be a story from your childhood, or something more recent. Letting them know they are allowed to have feelings will help them feel safe and give them a sense of reassurance.

Show Them Around

Showing your children around the area can help relieve some anxieties they may be feeling. Getting a chance to feel familiar with their new home and neighborhood may even spark feelings of excitement. When you show them around in your SUV, show them where they will be attending school, the local library, and any other places you think you and your family may visit frequently.

Get Involved

Once you have moved and gotten some of the unpacking out of the way, get your kids involved in anyway you can. You may find that the library has a list of clubs available, or you may find something for your kids to do at school. Some cities have a lot of local events at a local art center or around town, so don't be afraid to ask around about what activities your children can get involved in.

Keep Some Things the Same

If you aren't moving too far away, then you may be able to arrange a time for your children to play with their old friends. You may be able to transfer to their school if it isn't too far away, depending on district rules. If you have to move too far for any of this to be possible, try to have a similar schedule to what you had at home. This will help maintain a sense of security, and will help them adjust more quickly.

Moving to a new place can be a scary thought for anyone, but particularly for kids. It is normal for them to experience a wide range of emotions, from excitement to grief. Letting them process these in a safe place can help them move on. Showing them around the town and getting involved however you can will likely help them adjust to the idea of living somewhere else. Keeping their schedule the same as much as possible can also make the transition easier.