When you tell people that you are moving long-distance with your kids, they will offer their sympathies. The pity in their eyes makes you wonder just what you have let yourself in for. Surely it cannot be that bad?
A move to a new state for a fresh start is exciting, yet daunting. And if parents feel that way, imagine how their children feel. For any child, a move is unsettling, as it means they must leave a place that is central to their lives. However, there are many ways to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some ideas:
Lay the groundwork
The sooner you let children know about your intention to move, the longer they have to warm to the idea. Do not expect your announcement to go down well with everyone.
Tears, tantrums, and slamming bedroom doors might be among their first reactions. For many children, especially those who have never moved before, the idea of relocating has never crossed their minds.
At an age-appropriate level, allow your children a brief moment of ‘mourning’ and tell them that it is okay to be scared of the unknown. Help them say goodbye to their home by having friends over for a last visit and making a scrapbook of photographs of their old home.
Inject some fun into the move by turning packing into a game or a competition between siblings. You might have to recheck some boxes before you label them to ensure you have access to essentials when you arrive.
Moving day
If you feel it will be too emotional for them, use friends or family to babysit your children on moving day. They pick up on your stress, which will be high when boxes are being loaded and vehicles prepared for interstate car transport. However, if a child is enthusiastic about the move, allow them to participate. They might find the sight of A1AutoTransport loading the car exciting, which enables them to put negative thoughts aside.
Have a plan and a contingency plan for as many scenarios as you can. Do not try and manage the process alone. Get someone from your support network to be there while the packing up is ongoing to help you check that goes smoothly.
Hit the road
A plane trip would be ideal as it is fun and takes far less time, but this might not be possible, and you will have to drive. Any long-distance travel with kids can be a nightmare, but planning makes it easier.
Make sure you have healthy snacks packed for the trip and fun activities to do in the car to make the time go by faster. Playing games keeps children distracted, and they will not be demanding to know if you are there yet within 30 minutes of departing.
Audiobooks can be a lifesaver as everyone needs to sit still and pay attention to them. The problem comes in when you are traveling with kids of different ages. Appeal to older children to keep themselves amused and help you with little ones who often find such trips difficult.
Unpacking
Ensure that boxes with essentials are clearly labeled before the move so that you can access them immediately upon arrival. Familiar items will help your children settle into their new surroundings.
Using a color-coding system, grade your boxes according to their priority during the unpacking process as you pack. This will help when you face the mammoth task of unboxing your possessions and organizing everything as you want it. Make your children’s rooms a top priority to get them settled right away.