HOW TO PLAN A MOVE WITH CHILDREN?

That’s it, you’ve finally found the home of your dreams! Between the packing, the changes of address and the details to be settled, you will undoubtedly find the experience to be stressful… Imagine for your little ones!

Moving with children requires more preparation, both practical and emotional. With more than sixty years of experience to its credit, Brault Demenagement has accompanied thousands of parents in their move: here are the advice of our experts for a transition as peaceful as possible.

A MOVE WITH CHILDREN: A DETERMINING EVENT

Whether it’s because of a separation or a job change, or because your house has become too small or no longer suits your tastes, you have your reasons for wanting to move, but these can be difficult to understand for a child. It is therefore important to take the time to explain to him what motivated your decision and to approach this event with calm and optimism, since your child is very sensitive to your feelings.

As routine secures children, it is normal for them to anticipate the loss of their bearings, especially since they have little control over their environment. Do not minimize their pain and recognize that the move affects you too, while remaining positive. For example, you can say that even if you are going to miss your current bedroom, you can’t wait to choose the decoration for the next one!

Together, take time to say goodbye to your home and familiar places, like the park or your favorite restaurant. Encourage him to prepare gifts and cards for his friends, educator or teacher. You and your child can also create a keepsake box filled with things that remind you of your home and neighborhood.

The key to a successful move with children is preparation! Together, read books or watch movies on the subject. You can also play “moving”. If possible, take him to visit his new home or school. Finally, encourage your child to participate in the preparations and to pack their personal belongings themselves. He will feel more confident and in control.

D-DAY

When moving with children, it is preferable that they are not present for security reasons. With all the comings and goings of movers and last-minute details to sort out, you probably won’t have time for them. It is also possible that your child opposes to the move, which could become problematic.

It’s always a good idea to pack an easy-to-find box that contains the essentials for the day, like toilet paper or snacks. Include comforting objects that your child will look forward to finding the same day, such as his comforter and his favorite toys. Once you arrive at your new home, prepare his room as a priority. Do not worry about the order in which your child proceeds to settle down. He may insist on organizing his collection of trucks instead of filling his drawers with clothes, for example.

Try to get back to your daily routine quickly, with your usual meal, bath and bedtime times. Be patient: following a move, many children show signs of anxiety, such as nightmares that keep them awake or wetting the bed. These reactions will eventually go away.

In short, when moving with children, you must arm yourself with patience, calm and understanding. Since this is a particularly stressful episode for the little ones, remember that repeated moves are to be avoided.

Finally, do not hesitate to consult a psychologist if your child seems overwhelmed by events. A few sessions should be enough to bring it back to normal!