Did you take any trips around the UK during the summer holidays? There has been a huge increase in the number of properties available on the English coast and countryside, which may have left you dreaming of a new start, visiting the beach and running across the fields every day after school. While you may be dreaming of a different life, this can be hard for a child to get their head around, so how can you make things easier?
Explain what’s happening
Rather than simply telling your child(ren) that you are moving, (which may be quite hard for young children to understand). Show them photos of where you will be heading to so that they can start imagining where their furniture will go in your new home. Explain how moving will go in terms of packing up, getting a removal company in and unpacking the other end. Try to explain the process as much as possible.
Take them to visit
The best way for them to understand what’s going to happen is to arrange another viewing of the property, so they can see where they will be moving to for themselves. If you know that they’d enjoy the local park, pizza place or soft play area, take them there to show them why it will be a positive move from them.
List and photograph what’s good
While you’re visiting, ask your child to take photos of what will be their room so that they can imagine how they will make it their own. Let them also photograph anything else that the see that they like while they are there. Make sure that you list the things that the new area has to offer, and ask them to add to it.
Ask them how they feel
While you will be telling your child(ren) what’s happening, it’s important to also ask them how they feel about moving, what they are looking forward to and whether they have any concerns. Make sure that you answer any questions that they have honestly and ensure they feel heard. You never know what issues they may come up with – they may realise something that you would never have considered.
Fit your move into your child’s routine
If you are moving during term time, it may work better for you as your child will be in a routine at school, so you’ll be able to move and unpack. If they are moving to a different school, be sure to have their space applied for and secured before you move, so that they can hit the ground running when they are in their new location.
Make it a game
Removing any of the stress and anxiety from the process is ideal for you and for them. How this looks will depend on what your family enjoys.
Bring in a friendly reliable removal company
The last thing your children will want to be around while they are saying goodbye to their home is grumpy and rude removal people. It could be worth meeting your removal team in person before inviting them to be part of this big leap, so that you can make sure you’re creating the right environment for your children.
To see if we’re the right people to help you on your moving day, please get in touch.