But children may not look at things in the same light, particularly if they have close buddies and/or family where they live currently. The concept of moving to a new school and away from current relationships can cause a lot of apprehension in children.
While it may be rough for kids to move away from familiar folks, places, and things, there are things you can do to aid the transition to Killeen.
Honest Communication
Be sure they know about each stage along the path. Children should feel free to express their jitters as well as asking questions so be prepared to offer info and answer any questions they could have. While some of their opinions and concerns may be negative, be there for them with empathy and positive answers. Be careful to not invalidate their concerns but, instead, acknowledge their concerns and find ways that you can work together to reduce them.
Introduce Them to Their New Home in Killeen
If possible, let them visit the new area and even to the new house. Let them get a feel for where they'll be moving to. If it's not a possibility to visit the new home and area, take pictures or videos so they'll have an inkling of what the new abode will be like. Make sure to call attention to all of the beneficial features of the move (larger rooms, huge yard, etc.).
Take them for a Tour of the School
It may not be a possibility to do a school visit on site, but nearly all schools in America have a web presence. Go to the local school board's website and you will likely find information about 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 big origin of stress for children and also one of the largest parts of their lives, so it is crucial that they are ready prior to starting a new school. If you are capable of taking them on an actual tour of the new school, be make 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 can be involved in the job of packing up. Have them help you box up their personal possessions in moving boxes and let them label the boxes of their things. (An added benefit is they can go through their stuff and give away or discard things that they no longer want.)
Stick with Routines
Moving to Killeen can be a stressful and tiring occasion for parents but don't let this deter you from maintaining the same familiar schedules the kids are accustomed to. Children require predictability to feel safe and moving time is one of those times when it's even more necessary. Since they're already going through a time of change by moving to a new place, it's very vital to keep as many things familiar as possible.
Decorate Their Rooms First
Kids need structure and familiarity so it's imperative 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 cared about and “at home”.
Investigate the New Neighborhood
Help your children in getting to know the new area, landmarks, and neighbors. Encourage them to make new friends and learn 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's a good idea to utilize everything you possibly can to be sure you don't get stressed out, yourself. By arranging for a professional moving company to assist you in your household move, you remove lots of the stress from your back so you can concentrate more on the vital stuff.
The ultimate goal when moving with children is to make sure they are feeling safe and secure. If you seize every opportunity to help them see the positive side of the move and get excited about it, your chances of making them feel loved are magnified and they will be much happier embracing your new home in Killeen.
