How to Help Your Kids Get Adjusted to a New Home and Neighborhood

Accentuating the positive is always a good idea

As we get older, often we forget what it’s like to be a kid. Things we may have done a hundred times in all likelihood could be something brand new for a child. This is why if you are planning something pretty major – like a move – it is important to think of things from the point of view of your kids so the experience can be enjoyable for everyone. To do that, follow these tips:

Make it seem like an adventure

Whether you’ll be moving across town or across the country, you want your children to be excited and intrigued. Moving can be stressful, but try not to let this show. Instead, focus on the journey you’ll take and the interesting things you’ll encounter at your new place.

Visit the new area before you move

If you can, you should take a trip out to your new home, or at least the neighborhood. This will give your kids a chance to check out their new community, see where their school is, and just allow them to start getting comfortable with their new surroundings.

Stress the good stuff

While almost certainly your children will be sad to say goodbye to perhaps the only home they’ve known, you should talk up all of the great things the new house offers. Maybe it comes with a pool or they’ll now have their own room. There could be a pizzeria or ice shop nearby. You don’t have to trash your old home, but you want your kids to be eager to move.

Get them involved

When children feel as though they’re contributing, they will be much more engaged. Give them small tasks to do, like unpacking boxes or putting things away. And let them have a certain amount of control over their room, whether this involves picking a paint color, wallpaper, or other decorative options.

Meet the neighbors

A neighborhood isn’t anything without the neighbors, and it’s always a good idea to get to know the people who live around you. You can take your kids and knock on doors or, better yet, host a party where you can meet a bunch of folks at once. Chances are there are other kids in the area close in age to your own, and this is a great opportunity for everybody to make new friends.

As the grownup, you have a lot on your plate during a move. In addition to the logistical aspects, you probably have your own emotional attachment to your old home. When you keep the above tips in mind, you’ll soon realize that they’ll help you maybe just as much as your kids.

While you might be ready to call in the movers if your moving process is only just beginning and you haven’t even picked out a new house yet, get in touch with Dante Disabato. Tell him what you’re looking for and he will help you find a home perfect for you and your children. Call us at 239-537-5351 or fill out our contact form.