But children may not look at things the same way, particularly if they have close buddies and/or family where they live now. The idea of moving to a different school and away from established relationships can create a great deal of anxiety in children.
While it may be difficult for kiddos to move away from familiar folks, places, and things, there are things you can do to aid the transition to Denver.
Honest Communication
Be sure they know what is going on each step along the way. Children should feel safe to express their jitters as well as asking questions so be prepared to offer information and answer any questions they might have. While a number of their opinions and worries could be negative, be ready with understanding and optimistic answers. Be careful to not brush off their worries but, rather, recognize their concerns and find solutions that you can work together to reduce them.
Introduce Them to Their New Home in Denver
When feasible, let them visit the new community and even to the new house. Let them get a feel for where they'll be moving to. If it's not possible to visit the new home and neighborhood, take pictures or videos so they'll have some idea of what the new abode will be like. Make sure to point out all of the good elements of the move (larger rooms, big yard, etc.).
Take them for a Tour of the School
It may not be possible to do this physically, but most education institutions in America have a web presence. Look up the local school board's website and you'll most of the time find information about your child(ren's) new school(s). Explain to them the various school organizations and activities that they will be able to participate in. School may be a huge cause of stress for children and also an impactful part of their lives, so it's crucial that they are prepared before they begin a new school. If you are able to take them on a physical tour of the new school, be sure to introduce them to key players like the principals and guidance counselors.
Involve Them in Packing
There are plenty of age-appropriate methods that kids can be involved in the process of packing up. Let them help you pack up their personal possessions in moving boxes and let them label the boxes of their items. (An added benefit is they can pick through their things and give away or trash items that they no longer want.)
Stick with Routines
Moving to Denver can be a frantic and exhaustive occasion for parents but do not allow this to deter you from sticking with the same recognizable schedules the kids are used to. Children need predictability to feel safe and moving time is one of those occasions when it's even more necessary. Since they are already going through a period of unpredictability by moving to an unfamiliar place, it is even more important to keep as many things familiar as you can.
Decorate Their Rooms First
Kids need organization and familiarity so it is a good idea that their new rooms be as familiar to them as possible. By getting their new bedrooms furnished and decorated first, you let them know that they are valued parts of a new life. Including them in the process fortifies this need and helps them to feel cared about and “at home”.
Investigate the New Neighborhood
Help your children in getting familiar with the new lay of the land, landmarks, and neighbors. Encourage them to make new friends and learn the layout of the new area so they don't feel quite so lost.
Avoid Stress
When parents stress, kids stress. That is why it is beneficial to utilize everything you can think of to be sure you don't feel stressed out, yourself. By arranging for a professional moving company to aid you in your residential move, you remove lots of the stress from your shoulders so you can focus more on the vital stuff.
The most important thing when moving with children is to ensure they feel safe and secure. If you seize every moment to help them see the good side of the move and get excited about it, your chances of making them feel loved are magnified and they'll be much happier embracing your new residence in Denver.
