Well, the move is taking place as I speak!  We’ll pick up keys this afternoon, and start moving the boxes in this evening.  My children are elated!  Many people are concerned about how their children will respond to a move, as were we.  But there are a few things parents can do that will minimize the stress on the children, and perhaps even build excitement about their new place!

• Allow the children to be involved in choosing the new home.  You can only do this to an extent, but being involved gives children a sense of control,which is something they can feel a loss of when a move is taking place.
• Give the children choices…of rooms, paint color, room decor, etc. 
• Ask the kids to “help” pack…and remain patient as they do this!  I am very structured when it comes to packing, so I was a little nervous when my daughter offered to pack for my two-year-old.  But she has packed over three times what I have, and the important thing is that we get it there, right???
• As tempted as you are to send the kids away while you’re moving in, let them be a part of it…even if it’s just for a few hours.  My son is DYING to play with his “cars and trucks and trains in his new house”.  So the plan is to get some of his toys there, unpack them in his space, and let him play while we unpack elsewhere.

Remember to remain as calm as possible during your move, and speak positively of the experience.  We’ve been referring to ours as our latest adventure.  Your children will follow your lead.  And with your positive guidance, the move will be a positive experience for everyone.

Photo by popofatticus via Flickr Creative Commons.