Moving is a significant life change. And your kids need to know what’s going on before getting caught off guard on moving day. Talk to them about what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what changes this will mean for them. You may want to start by telling them that you’re looking for a new house. Or an apartment where you can all live together again. But let them know that it might take a little while. If you’re moving into an apartment building with other families who have kids (or families without kids), let them know who their neighbours will be and whether or not there’ll be other kids around their age nearby. These are how to prepare kids when moving into a new home in Ottawa.
Guide on how to prepare kids when moving into a New Home in Ottawa
1. Talk to your kids about moving. Let them know that you understand how scared they might be and that the movie itself isn’t so bad—it’s just the change of scenery that makes it scary. It is how to prepare kids when moving into a new home.
2. Take your child to your new community before the move. Show them where they’ll go to school, where the nearest park is, which stores are within walking distance, anything that will help them feel more comfortable in their new home. Click here for more details.
3. Stick to your routine as much as possible during the move and after—it helps children feel safe when they know what to expect next!
4. Be patient with your child! They might have trouble sleeping or eating while they adjust to their surroundings, but this will pass with time (and maybe some distractions). Again, it is how to prepare kids when moving into a new environment. Click here for more details.
5. Be strategic about packing your kids’ things: keep essential items in boxes labelled “KEEP” so they won’t get misplaced or lost during transit; pack toys and games separately from clothes so they don’t get stains or tears, and label.
6. Let the kids play: The first few days of a move, let your kids play as much as they want—and don’t worry about messing up the house! Let them run around and explore the new place. For instance, don’t let them play with their new toys until you’ve done everything else. It will give them a chance to get comfortable in their new home while unpacking at the same time.
7. Plan on ordering meals: Your family doesn’t have to worry about cooking while getting used to their new home for the first few days. It will also allow you to explore the area. And your new home without any distractions from cooking or grocery shopping. It is how to prepare kids when moving into a new place.
Moving day should be fun for you and your kids—it shouldn’t feel like a chore! But, first, plan what part of the house each child will help pack up. So everyone gets some hands-on experience with moving day preparations. Click here for more details.