Moving can be a very stressful part of each one’s life. It can be overwhelming for the grown-ups, so how do you think this process can reflect onto the children? Just like the parents, the kids go through the relocation as well. Children that go to school will face their own challenges with the relocation – a new environment, new school, and new friends.
The organizing process itself is different when you have kids in the house. However, you shouldn’t be too stressed over it – there are things you should be mindful of, as well as some points you can turn to your advantage. We offer some useful facts, as well as pieces of advice about relocating with your school-aged kids. Relocating can be fun and stress-free for all of you!
Children Get Stressed Over Relocations, Too
As much as the moving process is stressful and busy for you as parents, it can be a bigger deal to your kids. Children who go to school are well-aware they are going to change the environment completely, and if you are moving to Hawthorn Wood for the first time, they are going to change schools. This can leave quite an emotional impact on them, and that’s why you should be ready for it.
Be aware of your children might starting to feel insecure, sad, or even scared. Talking to them and making them open up to you and talk about their main concerns will be very helpful. Make sure they know you’re there and you got things under control. Also, try your best to point out all the positive aspects of the relocation. Let them know they are still going to be able to contact their old friends. Highlight all the benefits of changing the surroundings.
Take time to validate their feelings by acknowledging that it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. Encourage them to express any fears or hopes they have about the move. For younger children, reading books about moving or creating a memory book of their current home can make the transition easier. For older children, having regular conversations and sharing plans for the new home can help them feel more secure and prepared.
Include Kids in Organization Process
Many kids love being kept busy since they have so much energy to spend. If your kids are older, they can help out with organizing. If they are involved in the relocation process, all of you might feel better. They can help by packing their books, toys, or even clothes. Kids get distracted easily so keep that in mind, and if you see they might be creating more commotion, let them stay at the grandparents’ house or so.
Including children in age-appropriate moving tasks can give them a sense of control and ownership over the process. Younger kids may enjoy decorating moving boxes with labels or packing small items. For older children, assigning them the responsibility of packing their own room allows them to feel empowered. This involvement helps children adapt to the idea of moving, as they see it as a family project rather than a stressful event. For children with favorite belongings, let them pack a “special box” of their most treasured items to bring with them personally.
Prepare for the Moving Day with Kids in Mind
On the moving day, your kids will move with you, so make sure to prepare enough food, water, snacks, or even blankets if they get tired. If there is a long road ahead of you, kids’ needs must not be neglected. Consider packing a “moving day kit” with essentials for your kids, including snacks, games, coloring books, and electronic devices with headphones for entertainment.
If you’re traveling a long distance, plan for rest stops and breaks to keep everyone comfortable. If you’re moving locally, arranging a trusted family member or babysitter to keep your children occupied while movers work can reduce stress and keep them safe. Preparing for your children’s needs on moving day allows you to stay focused on the move without interruptions or added stress.
What Does Hawthorn Wood Offer To Your Children?
Chicago suburbs are known for being family-friendly, peaceful, and comfortable. With school-aged children, you will be happy with our schools and daycare centers. Also, there are beautiful parks as well as other fun places for kids to entertain themselves, such as Hawthorn Wood Aquatic Center. Get acquainted with the area and do your research about the schools in your neighborhood – you’ll be happy with the quality of life around here. Make yourself and your kids at home!
Beyond school options, the community provides excellent extracurricular activities like sports leagues, arts programs, and community events. Hawthorn Wood offers ample green spaces, trails, and recreational facilities, giving children opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. Exploring these facilities with your kids helps them feel more connected to their new surroundings and excited about the transition. Familiarizing your children with local amenities and creating a routine around their new environment can help them build positive associations with their new home.
Tips for Helping Kids Adjust to a New School
Starting a new school can be daunting for children, so preparing them for this change can ease their transition. Take the time to visit their new school before the first day, allowing them to see classrooms, playgrounds, and other facilities. Meeting teachers and introducing them to school staff can also help reduce anxiety.
Encourage your children to get involved in extracurricular activities or sports teams to make friends and feel part of the community. You can also arrange playdates with neighborhood kids if possible, allowing them to build friendships in a relaxed setting. Reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous at first but that, with time, their new school will feel just as familiar as their old one.
Conclusion
Relocating with school-aged children may present unique challenges, but with the right approach, it can be a positive experience for the whole family. By addressing your children’s emotional needs, involving them in the moving process, and helping them adapt to their new environment, you make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Moving to a family-friendly area like Hawthorn Wood offers wonderful opportunities for a fresh start, great schools, and safe recreational spaces for children to thrive. With a bit of planning and open communication, you’ll help your kids feel excited and secure about this new chapter.
