How to Relocate With a Preschooler
Relocating can be a difficult thing for everyone in a home, but particularly a preschooler. To him, moving can seem scary and intimidating. What might be new and exciting to some can be a complete disruption for him. A child is usually not involved in relocation decisions, so he may feel as though he is losing his entire world. With consideration and time, you can help him through this difficult transition.
Instructions
Before Relocating
Consider the effects a relocation will have on your child before committing to a move. Young children do well when things are predictable. Compare the benefits of moving against the comfort level your child currently has with her school and established friends. Inform your child about everything and be honest. The quicker you tell him the details of the move, the sooner you will be able to make him feel comfortable. Last-minute moves are not good for him, so avoid them when possible. Keep things simple and let him gradually digest the move. Speak of the move often. Allow her to ask questions at her own pace. When she asks, answer as completely as possible, including the things she may not like. Allow her to be happy, sad or whatever emotion in-between. She may only understand that things are changing and it may take time to adjust. Allow him to feel as though he is a part of the process. As a preschooler, he can still "pack" a box or two or give his opinion on a school or neighborhood. The more involved he is, the better the chances he will adapt well. Visit the new house with her if you are able before actually moving. If you live close enough, visit her new school and neighborhood as well. If you can do this with her several times it will build her confidence. During the Relocation
Have him help pack up his own room. Even if he is unable to actually help, allow him to feel as though he is doing so. This will help him realize that all his important things are coming along with him. Label the boxes and explain the process of moving as you pack. Keep all of her furniture and bedroom decorations intact from the old home. Parents often want to change things. She needs familiarity. Allow her the same bedroom in the new home for a time, then make your changes when she has adjusted. Keep a positive attitude throughout the process regardless of how you might feel inside. The relocation may have not been your decision, or you may be stressed over the move. Regardless, keep stress from him when possible. This can make him nervous and worried at an already stressful time. Take her through the home with a camera and say goodbye. Remembering your old home is a good way to teach her about family values. Shoot pictures to put into a scrapbook so that she has a visual keepsake. This can make her more comfortable in the new home. Pack a personal box to keep in the car in case his own toys arrive after the move. Having these familiar toys around will help him feel safe and secure for the move itself. Some parents even get a baby sitter for the day of the move. After the Relocation
Unpack her room before you move on to the rest of the house. This will allow her to begin adapting quickly. Keep things as close to his old schedule as possible. Do not change the way you do things like dinner or chores until he is accustomed to the new digs. Make yourself available as much as you can. A move can be upsetting and she will need to feel close to you. Take some time away from the dregs of work and pay tons of attention to her while she gets used to the move.
