Top tips for protecting the mental health and wellbeing of children when moving home
Moving house can be stressful for everyone, but extra special care is essential for the little people in our lives. This article gives tips on how to help children navigate a house move…
It is widely reported that moving home is very stressful, and it makes sense, doesn't it? You are moving your entire family and all of your possessions from somewhere you are comfortable and familiar to somewhere completely new. It is a daunting prospect to have to pack and manoeuvre you, your family and your belongings to a new, unfamiliar home. And there are plenty of blog posts around the internet that share tips on how to get you through it all.
But put yourself for just a moment in the shoes of the younger members of your household. Home means safety and comfort for a child, which is thrown into question when significant change is ahead.
So, how can you balance your plans to move and the well-being of your children and family?
Get them involved: Of course, there are some areas that the children don't need to be included in, such as completing paperwork and meetings with the financial advisor. However, including them in the decision-making process about moving can be helpful so that it is not thrust upon them without considering their feelings. None of us really like change; we hate the feeling of losing control of our environment, so keeping the whole family included in the plans and making sure that there is a positive discussion about moving, not just about the potential stresses.
Make plans together: Plans are exciting and a great way to include the family in the choice of the next property that you move to. What would the children like from the new house? Adding things to the wishlist that the children want will allow them to feel included and excited about the move. But don't rush things. Take your time; this will allow the children to come to terms with the move in their own time.
Safety and security: Take time to talk to your children about the move and give them the space and freedom to speak their minds. If there are concerns, it is best that your children can express those concerns, which will enable you to address those concerns and encourage open dialogue. The worst thing is if your child is struggling with the concept of moving house, but they don't feel that you are listening to them. As the parent, you make the ultimate decisions, but moving house is a big deal for the kids, too. What if they have to change schools or miss their friends? We, as adults, know that these concerns are temporary and most of us don't hang out with friends from school anyway, but, to a small child, these friendships are everything, and, understandably, they will feel nervous that a house move will take those relationships away from them.
Of course, parents know their own children, and you will be able to identify if your child is struggling or pushing back against a move. Clearly, if there are deeper underlying issues, then you might want to consider professional help, but for most children, simply including them in the discussion about moving will be enough to make them feel safe.
If you and your family are ready to take the first step towards moving home, contact our team for expert guidance and advice. We will ensure that your sale goes smoothly and that you will be living in your dream home in no time.
Call us on 01843 222701 or email client.services@oakwoodhomes.biz.