Helping Children Adjust to a New Home

Whether you and your family are moving to a new state, a new neighborhood, or just down the street, the process can be stressful for children. It’s very important to understand your child’s concerns, and address them in a positive manner in order to make the experience a pleasant one for everyone.

It might be the case that the home you are moving away from is the only house that your child knows. There is a sense of comfort and familiarity that will take time to regain in a new environment. One of the first questions to ask is “what are my kids concerned about?” Depending on your child’s age and personality, the answer to this question may be different for every individual. Younger children tend to worry most about being separated from their parents, intermediate ages children seem to worry most about how their daily routines will be affected, and teenagers are most concerned with fitting in and having a social life in the new setting.

Below is an explanation of each situation, and what you can do as a parent in order to keep the “experience” a positive one.

Infant/Toddler:

Generally, this age group of children tends to transition into a new home very well. It isn’t uncommon for small children to pick up on the emotions of their parents, and adjust their personality accordingly. If you are feeling anxiety, it’s likely that your young child will feel the same. Irritability and a demanding attitude are common outcomes of this situation. Toddlers will also have to re-learn some of the household rules that they have been learning. For example, if it’s a rule in your home not to bring the juice box into the living room, it will be important to reestablish this rule again in the new setting. The best remedy for parents with young children is to keep a normal routine, and make sure to take time out of your schedule to pay extra attention to your kids.

Preschooler:

A preschool aged child is likely to be very excited about moving into a new home, but they likely do not understand everything that is going on. It’s difficult for a child this age to conceptualize the idea that not everything can go with them when they move. They may seem to be more attached to items that are comforting to them such as a blanket, or special stuffed animal. Since moving can be very stressful for adults, children will sometimes internalize the frustration and feel more distant from their parents. It’s important for parents to explain the process of “moving” to children, and even include them. Allow them to pack special items of their own so that they feel involved, but always remember to take time to spend with your child so that you can maintain your normal routine as best you can.

School-aged Children:

School-aged children have great imaginations and are usually looking forward to a family move. Their energy and enthusiasm can help greatly in packing up their room or doing special cleaning projects. Relationships with friends at school and a familiarity with their daily routine are often disrupted with a move to a new home. Even though your child may seem excited about the event of moving, it’s crucial to take steps necessary in order to make the transition smooth. Tips include allowing your child to help plan their new bedroom, choosing a paint color, or a new bedroom set are decisions that will make them feel important. Also, exploring the new community for clubs, after-school activities, etc. will give your child an opportunity to easily meet friends their age.

Teenagers:

Teens are often most affected by a family’s decision to move. At this age, children are learning to form more long-term relationships with friends and are very involved in social activities. Although teens are usually mature enough to understand the reasoning behind moving, they are often not strong enough to deal with the decision emotionally. Parents can help their teens with the change by giving them time and space. Be sure to be up front with your teen and let them know right away when the decision is made. It is also helpful to check out schools and activities in the area, and keep an open relationship with your teen.

Moving can be a major change for anyone, but especially for your children. Being aware of the emotions that your child may feel can help you as a parent be aware and ready to help your child deal with the move so that the experience can be an enjoyable one for everyone.

Sources:

Home Fair - Helping Kids Move
National Network for Child Card - Understanding Children: Moving To a New Home

Helping Pets Adjust to a New Home

We all know that moving into a new home can be stressful for us as adults, but what about our pets? It is true that the experience can be traumatic for your animals, and it’s essential that you are patient and understanding in order to help you and your entire family settle in safely and happily.

Dogs:

Your dog will become familiar with your new home by smelling furniture that is already in place from the existing house. It’s important to remember to keep things as regular as possible for your pet. Keeping the same bed, crate, and dog toys can be a comforting element in the home for your dog. Also keeping on the same schedule of going for a daily walk can help to make the transition smoother. Your pet may need extra attention and love during this time.

Cats:

It is sometimes best to keep your cat confined in one particular room in your new home until everything is put together. Make sure this room has all of the familiar elements as your previous home including bed, litter box, food, and water. Creating a special “perch” in the new home such as a windowsill or scratching post are also helpful hints. Giving your animal extra attention during the transition can make the experience easier for them.

As always, make sure your pet’s safety is a concern as you move into a new environment. Put away cleaning supplies that could be poisonous to animals in a secure place, and also be careful to tuck away cords that could cause electrocution if your animal were to chew on them. Also be sure to secure any loose screens or broken fences so that your animal will not attempt to leave your home or yard.

Source:

The Humane Society - Moving: Settling into Your New Home