A move to a
new home can be an exciting experience
for children, if you employ careful
planning from start to finish. Planning
begins with informing them of the
upcoming move and includes organizing
the details of relocating, as well as
getting acquainted with your new
community.
The
Positive Approach
When your family is planning to
relocate, your reaction to the upcoming
changes is most important.
Children normally reflect their parents'
attitudes. Accentuate the positive. A
positive parental attitude will go a
long way toward soothing fears and
creating an atmosphere of anticipation
for the children.
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Prepare
them in advance for the move.
Tell them immediately about the
move. Give them time
to adjust to the idea. Answer
all questions. Explain the
reasons for the move as
explicitly as necessary,
depending on the child's age. An
honest question-and-answer
session will give you an idea of
the specific concerns your
children have about the move.
This will give you the chance to
resolve their fears and let them
know you are interested in their
opinions and feelings. Permit
children to participate. This
will give them a sense of
responsibility and self-worth.
Choose a professional moving
company. A company experienced
in moving families will minimize
your responsibilities. Then, you
can devote more time to your
children.
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With these steps,
you can ease the insecure feelings some
children experience when removed from
familiar surroundings. It is difficult
to break strong ties to the old home,
neighborhood, school and close friends.
But remember, moving can be a great
personal growth opportunity for all
family members, including children. Take
advantage of the situation and make it a
truly exciting experience for everyone.
Take-Along Suggestions
Here's a checklist of things to take in
the car with you:
Baby
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Suitable
clothing
Diaper or utility bag
Disposable diapers
Nursers with plastic throwaway
liners, nipples and pacifiers
Baby food, formula, fruit
juice, water and a cap opener
Favorite cuddle toy
Baby toiletries such as
powder, lotion, oil and cotton
balls
Safety-approved infant car
seat
First-aid kit (Discuss with
your pediatrician any
medications you should have on
hand. Include
a thermometer, baby pain
reliever and a small hot water
bottle, which also can be
used as an ice bag.)
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Toddler
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Collapsible stroller
Child's portable car toilet
Safety-approved car seat
Favorite small toy
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Elementary
to Preteen
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Children
in their elementary and preteen
years are easier to keep content
during a long
trip. Provide them with a
few travel games, coloring books
and comic books. Let them
visit the local variety
store for ideas.
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Teenager
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Teenagers
probably will have their own
ideas of travel entertainment,
but might enjoy
favorite books or travel
games. Many just enjoy watching
the scenery.
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