How to Prepare a Child for Moving to a New Town

One of the most stressful and yet exciting times in any child's life is moving to a new town. If you are getting ready to move, make sure you prepare your child well in advance. Let them him know that it is OK to be sad, but that he will make new friends and get to explore a new town.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Tell your child about moving at the first opportunity. She probably will not be excited about it initially, but letting her have time to think about it will help.
2. Research your new town with your child. Get on the Internet with him and find out what exciting things there are to do there.
3. Start to follow the sports teams from your new area.
4. Help your child gather addresses and phone numbers of her friends. Remind her that she can still keep in touch with old friends.
5. Address his individual concerns about moving. If he is worried about leaving soccer or art classes, find out what the new town offers. Let him know he will still be able to do the things he enjoys.
6. Visit the new town if at all possible. Make the trip fun. Go do whatever activities the town has to offer. Go to a museum, a park or a ballgame. If you get a chance, let them help with the house hunting.
7. Try and visit her new school while it is in session. This will give her a better idea of what it is like than wandering around empty hallways.

Tips & Warnings

• Be positive about the move. If you are not positive, do not expect them to be.
• Plan to get involved in activities as soon as possible.
• Address their concerns. Do not dismiss them.