But children may not look at things the same as you, especially if they have close chums and/or family where they live now. The thought of moving to a new school and away from current relationships can cause a lot of apprehension in children.
While it could be rough for children to move away from everyday faces, places, and things, there are things you should do to help with the transition to Houston.
Honest Communication
Be sure they know what is going on each step along the way. Children should feel secure to express their fears as well as being able to ask questions so be prepared to supply facts and answer any questions they could have. While a few of their thoughts and concerns may be negative, be there for them with compassion and optimistic answers. Make sure to not discount their worries but, instead, recognize their concerns and explain ways that you can work together to reduce them.
Introduce Them to Their New Home in Houston
When possible, let them visit the new neighborhood and even to the new house. Let them get familiarized with where they will be moving to. If it is not possible to take them to tour the new residence and neighborhood, take pictures or videos so they will have some idea of what the new abode will look like. Be sure to point out all of the positive features of the move (bigger rooms, big yard, etc.).
Take them for a Tour of the School
It may not be practicle to do a school tour on site, but the vast majority of education institutions in America have a web presence. Visit the local school board's website and you will most of the time find links to your child(ren's) new school(s). Tell them about the various school organizations and activities that they will be able to participate in. School can be a huge source of anxiety for children and also one of the largest parts of their lives, so it is vital that they are ready prior to starting a new school. If you're capable of taking them on an actual tour of the new school, be sure to introduce them to important people like the principals and guidance counselors.
Involve Them in Packing
There are a lot of age-appropriate methods that kids might be involved in the task of packing up. Have them help you pack up their personal things in moving boxes and allow them to label the boxes of their items. (A perk is they can sort through their belongings and donate or throw out items that they no longer use.)
Stick with Routines
Moving to Houston might be a frantic and exhaustive time for parents but do not allow this to deter you from sticking with the same well-known schedules the kids are accustomed to. Children need consistency to feel safe and moving time is one of those occasions when it is absolutely necessary. Since they're already enduring a time of uncertainty by moving to a new place, it is very crucial to keep as many things familiar as possible.
Decorate Their Rooms First
Kids need structure and familiarity so it's important that their new rooms be as familiar to them as possible. By making their new bedrooms first priority, you establish them as valued parts of a new life. Keeping them involved in the process fortifies this need and makes them feel loved and “at home”.
Investigate the New Neighborhood
Help your children in getting to know the new neighborhood, landmarks, and neighbors. Encourage them to meet new friends and grasp the layout of the new area so they do not feel quite so disoriented.
Avoid Stress
When parents stress, kids stress. That is why it is helpful to do everything you possibly can to ensure you don't get stressed out, yourself. By hiring a professional moving company to assist you in your household move, you get rid of lots of the stress from your back so you can focus more on the vital stuff.
The end game when moving with kids is to ensure they are feeling safe and secure. If you take every opportunity to help them see the good side of the move and get excited about it, your chances of making them feel loved are higher and they will be much happier embracing your new residence in Houston.
