How to Help Your Child Cope with Moving Anxiety

Moving can be a traumatic experience for children, and requires a period of adjustment. In a move, a child must leave behind home, school, friends and all that is familiar. It is understandable how such circumstances could cause stress and anxiety. Here are a few ways parents can help make the transition smoother.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

How to Help Your Child Through a Move

1. Take your child on a tour. Take him to visit the new neighborhood and get to know the area. Visit the school he will be attending. If you're moving to another state and visiting the area is not feasible, use the internet to show your child pictures of the location and its surrounding areas.

2. Explain to your child how the move will benefit your family. For example, a better job will mean more money and better things for you and your child.

3. Point out the positive aspects of the move. If you're moving to a big city, tell your child about all the things she'll be able to do and new places she'll get to go. If you're moving to the country, focus on the beauty of nature and the peaceful freedom of country living. If you're moving from an apartment to a house, show your child the big yard he will have to play in, or how he will finally be able to have the dog he always wanted.

4. Remind your child that she can always keep in touch with her friends via letters, phone calls and/or email. Make plans to visit the old neighborhood when possible.

5. Throw a farewell party. It doesn't have to be anything fancy; just allow your child to invite his friends over for burgers, fries and snacks and to have some fun before leaving. Invite the parents too. Let your child have a sleepover. The kids can toss blankets, pillows and/or sleeping bags on the floor and camp out between the packed boxes. Get out your camcorder and record the event. Take lots of pictures, too. They will be a great source of solace for your child if and when he starts to feel lonely in the new place.