Useful Tips

Page 1 - Kids and Moving

Page 2 - The Age Difference

Page 3 - Timing Pitfalls & Myths

Page 4 - Useful Tips

Before the move:

Involve the children. If possible take them with you when you go house hunting. Do some research. Get your children excited about where they're going. Find out about the history and attractions of the area you are going to. Allow them to give you ideas of how they will want their new rooms to be decorated. Make time to visit favourite places and people before you go.

Give them a small address book and encourage them to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends. Extend invitations to their friends to come and stay once you are settled in your new house.

Caution your kids if you are moving to a radically different environment, such as moving from the city to the country or vice-versa. The more they know what to expect the more confident and optimistic they are likely to be.

On the day:

Moving Treats - Pack a few of your children's favourite toys, books and snacks to enjoy during the move.

Safety First - If the kids are to play or roam around unattended for any time at all, you must check both your current home, and on arrival, check your new home for potential accident producers, such as loose steps, builder's rubble, dangerous areas such as unfenced pools and unlocked gates. Your new home can pose quite a risk because the kids don't know or appreciate the dangers and risks of an unfamiliar environment. Letting older kids go to the shops on their own could mean their getting lost on day one.

Time Out - Don't try to get everything done the minute you arrive. As soon as the major unpacking is done, take a break with the family. Packing a picnic for this purpose before you leave is a great way to unwind for a while with your kids.

After the move:

Time In - Spend as much time with your children as you can, and let them tell you everything about their new school and friends. Some children may not find it easy to begin with. Follow their progress closely, and if you detect any concerns that do not fade away, do not hesitate to visit their teacher.

You may find it a good idea to accompany them to school for the first few days.

Be aware of the signs - Younger children may revert to baby behaviour. Be reassuring rather than scolding and they should soon revert to normal behaviour.

Consult your doctor if any unusual behaviour continues, such as loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, and advise your doctor that you have recently moved house.

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