Tips

• Include the children in making plans for the move. For example, take them house-hunting with you.
• Help your child(ren) learn about the new area.
• Through play-acting with dolls, boxes and a wagon, children can get a feeling of "moving".
• Let the children help decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.
• Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.
• Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, some clothing, and a few favorite toys for the move.
• Take a "family break" as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don't try to do everything when you arrive.
• Parents should spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.
• Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child(ren) to school the first few days may ease tension.
• Any lingering abnormalities (loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, diarrhea, menstrual disorder) should be reported to a doctor.
• If your move involves suburban to rural, or vice versa, caution children about new situations they will face.