but parents can take steps to prepare them.
Whether it's across the country or down the block, moving can be
stressful. Experts agree this is particularly true for young children,
who often fear leaving their friends and familiar surroundings for a new
home. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 10 million children
relocate each year, leaving many parents to struggle with how to create
a smooth move for their kids.
Allied Van Lines has teamed up with Thomas Olkowski, Ph.D., a top child
psychologist and author of "Moving with Children," to offer expert
advice designed to help parents ease their youngsters through the
relocation process.
"While moving to a new home is exciting, it often means a new school,
new friends and a whole new life for children," says Dr. Olkowski. "It's
natural for them to feel nervous. Luckily, there are a few simple steps
parents can take to calm their child's fears and make the transition
easier for the whole family."
• Tell children about the move as soon as possible-a child should
never overhear the news by accident.
• Schedule regular family meeting times to discuss the move with
kids, sharing the details, encouraging their questions and listening to
their suggestions.
• Position the relocation as an exciting adventure with fun
opportunities for the family.
• For younger children, consider reading children's books about
moving, and talk about the pictures and how the people in the pictures
may be feeling.
• Before moving to a new home, it is critical that children have a
chance to say goodbye. Consider hosting a moving party and give children
an opportunity to create scrapbooks and photo albums with their friends.
• Provide children with address books and autograph books to use
when saying goodbye.
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