Mini Movers - Helping Children Face their Summer Move

Summer vacation is looking a little different and many schools are bringing classes to a close; however, the summer season is still on the way. Despite the challenges faced by the corona virus, this time remains popular in the housing market, and many families are looking at packing up and moving to a new home.

While parents may be excited about the new possibilities a new house offers, some children may be feeling sad to leave their friends and comforts of home behind, especially while social distancing. It's important for parents to prepare their children for a change, and even real estate agents can help play a part in getting kids ready for the transition.

One of the most important things to remember when moving with kids is to communicate. Involving them in the process and keeping them updated will help them to better understand what is happening. Young children may not understand the reasons for moving such as a new job or a larger home; it's easy for them to focus on what all they will no longer have.

Instead, show them what all the new home has to offer, whether that be a bigger bedroom, a fun basement, a pool, or a big backyard. While touring homes in person may not always be an option right now, virtual tours are increasingly popular, and still a great way too allow children to visualize and get excited about their new home.

In addition to preparing them for their new house, do some research and explore your future neighborhood with your child. Explain the new options they will have at their new school, tell them about any sports teams or hobbies near your home that they can join, and show them other interesting and fun activities that you can explore on a map. With many schools turning to digital learning in the last few months, check out your school's website and social media pages to find videos of the school that you can share with your child.

It's of course important to prepare your children for their new future neighborhood, but don't forget to say goodbye to the old one. Consider throwing a "going-away party" for your home to look back on the memories you made there and commemorate your time. Letters are a great way for children to communicate with their friends in these times of social-distancing, as well. Before you leave, make sure to get contact information from friends so they can keep in touch.

On moving day, despite the chaos that is likely all around, do your best to remain positive and excited for your child. Pack a personal belongings bag for each family member, and allow your child to pick 2 to 3 of their favorite toys to keep with them for the first night in the new home. Think about other ways to make moving day exciting as well, such as camping out in the living room for the first night, or surprising them with a new toy or item in their bedroom.

As with many things, your attitude can make or break the transition of moving for your child. If you remain positive and approach the move as an exciting new adventure, your kid will do the same. It's okay to express the emotions you feel about leaving your old home, but always stay positive when preparing for the new neighborhood. An uplifting attitude can make all the difference, and soon your child will be playing with new friends and loving their new home in no time.