How to Move Out of State With Children

Prepare children for a move out of state well before the move.

Moving is a stressful time for everyone involved, especially children. Moving out-of-state can be a particularly daunting experience. According to a November 2007 article in USA Today, almost 3 percent of Americans move out of state every year. This includes many children. Preparing children for an out-of-state move is crucial, as the preparation can help ease the stress that children will inevitably feel when faced with this situation. With the right attitude, moving out of state can become an adventure rather than an ordeal.

Things You'll Need

• Special box for each child
• School records
• Shot records
• Address book

Instructions

1. Talk to the children about why you are moving. Give age-appropriate explanations. Children who are 4 years old can be told that Daddy has a new job, while children who are teenagers are capable of understanding that the job market in their hometown is not strong, thus necessitating the out-of-state job, for example.

2. Educate children about the town and state you are moving to. Use the Internet to research the area and what it has to offer. Aerial photography and live video cams of state attractions can take some of the mystery out of the move, while encouraging positive anticipation about the move.

3. Provide each child with a special box in which to pack his most important things. Children can put their favorite books, toys and comfort items in the box. Mark the box clearly with the child's name, and place it last on the moving truck. Unpack the children's boxes first when you arrive.

4. Pick up school records, and make sure you have the children's shot records. If not, get a copy from the pediatrician before you move. Find out which school(s) your children will be attending in the new state and the location. If you are moving in the summer, find out when the first day of school is. If possible, take children to the school to meet the school principal and counselor when school is not in session.

5. Purchase an address book. Collect the snail mail, email addresses and phone numbers of the children's friends and families so that they can stay in touch. As your children make new friends, they are less likely to stay connected to old friends, but initially, this can make the move much easier.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are divorced, check your custody agreement. There may be a prohibition against moving out of state with the children or special stipulations. Make sure you are legally able to make the move.

References

• USA Today: Millions More Americans Move to New States
• Nemours Kids Health: What Kids Who Are Moving Should Do

Resources

• Real Simple: Moving Checklist