Moving to a new house can be exciting, nerve-wracking, scary, fun, daunting and an adventure. For children, the above can be any of those things and can be a memory remembered forever based on how the time before and during the day turns out.
Read more: Essential moving tips
Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate advises those moving with children to take the necessary time required when moving with children. “Children like adults develop emotional connections to their homes and are aware of their surroundings just as much as adults are but may not be able to express it in a way that is understood. Use the following tips to make moving to a new house an easier process for your children.”
Discuss the move
Nothing could be more shocking to your children than finding out about a move once it is already underway. When the decision to move comes up, make a point of sitting down with your children to enlighten them about the move and discuss with them more or less when the move is expected to take place.
While you cannot be certain of the exact date, preparing your children in this way will be a big help in preparing them.
Include them in the decision of your property buy
Including your children in the decision to purchase a new property is almost as important as informing them of the decision to move. If they are aware of possible new homes, they will have something to envision and get used to.
Having them along in the decision of where to buy will also aid them in familiarizing themselves with the neighbourhood and all of its perks.
Make packing fun
Packing is a must. Make this activity seem less like a chore when you assign the duties of packing certain items to your child.
Create clues for them of where their next packing area is and offer rewards once that has been completed. Ensure the experience is interactive and a fun way to involve your children.
Have a plan of action of them on the day of the move
Depending on their age, your children may get swept up in the chaos of the move and end up feeling flustered.
To prevent this, have a plan of action in place for them to ensure they remain calm, occupied and happy. Plan for them to remain with family or have a plan filled with plenty of their favourite activities to keep them occupied and make the day of the move much less stressful for all involved.