Selling a house and moving can be stressful for all members of your family. A bit of forward planning can help to minimise the disruption to routines and make the process easier on the youngest members of your family. Below are some tips that we hope will help your family.
Don't delay breaking the news!
Just like adults, kids need time to get used to the idea of moving, particularly if the move will involve changing schools/kindergarten/daycare, so we suggest you provide them with as much advanced warning as possible.
Provide them with as much age-appropriate information as you can, regarding why the family is moving, and what they can expect to experience in their new home and new suburb.
Explore your new neighbourhood
Once you’ve chosen what suburb or town you’re moving to, show your children maps and pictures of where you’ll be living. Talk about local attractions that may be interesting (such as beaches or parks), and if you have the time take them for a day trip to the suburb to show them all of the highlights.
Be cautiously optimistic
As with many life changes, your children’s attitude to the move will likely mirror yours, so it’s important to be optimistic and positive about the move. Keep in mind that even if the new house is perfect for your family, it will still take some time for everyone to adjust to living there.
Involve them in the process
Depending on the age of the child, you may be able to involve them in the packing process, as this may help them to understand that even though they’ll be living in a new home, all of their belongings will come with them.
Once you’ve moved into your new home, get them to help unpack their things and decide how to arrange their bedroom. If funds permit, having your child decorate their own bedroom can go a long way in helping them settle in to their new home and new routines.
Keep a routine
Routine is central to a child’s world, so it’s important to try and keep some normality and routine during this process (particularly if your home is on the market). We suggest that you continue with all of your regular weekend activities during this time.
If you have toddlers, perhaps consider delaying implementing changes such as commencing toilet training until you are settled into your new home.