It is very difficult for children to move to a new place. They love the familiarity with their home and surroundings, and it is hard for them to make the change. To help them with this transition, keep them involved. When searching for a home, have them look at virtual tours, pictures. Ask what they like about the house. Once a decision has been made, have a mini celebration with the family.
Include the kids in packing up the home. Purge the clutter throughout the house, and start the piles of toss, sell, donate. If you decide to have a sale, let them know that you will be using the money from the sale to purchase something for the whole family to use.
Research the new neighborhood, parks, schools, social organizations. Show your children around the new surroundings such as their new school, movie theatre, parks, etc. Explain to them where you will be working from the house too.
Prior to the move, have a party with their friends. Exchange pictures, photos, and contact info. If you are not moving far, schedule play dates. With cell phones, texting, Face book, they still can be involved with each other.
Have some fun, be a tourist, make it a mini vacation in your new home. Go to the park, ride bikes together, go for walks, and enjoy the fun things in your neighborhood as a family!
