The development and growth of a child is fundamental in any aspect, whether financial, emotional or psychological. Therefore, different factors must be taken into account to make parenting the most efficient, because, when there is some kind of imbalance, it can greatly affect the child’s personality. A clear example of this can be the process of relocating and the drastic changes that the child may experience in short periods of time.
But, why? Generally, changes of location may disturb the child because most of the time they have a fulfilled life -or at least according to their perspective- since they go to school where they have friends, teachers, an environment full of emotional well-being, health, and a routine that they stick to. When this plan is totally changed and they move to another area -especially if it is far away-, they feel they have to start from scratch to build that vitality they liked so much, just like adults, the difference lies in the way a child may emotionally digest the event.
So, how can you help your children cope with a move?
Changes for everyone can greatly affect the emotional balance they possess. However, when it comes to a minor, the perspective is usually a little different. What should you do?
1. Understanding
It must be clear that children have a hard time digesting sudden changes in routine. Therefore, the best way is to clarify step by step the expected context. This means explaining adequately the reason for the change of location, what the new plan will be, how easy it is to find solutions to problems, among other things.
2. Familiarization for adaptation
Communication will always be the best factor to make the child understand the situation he/she is living in. So, a solution to encourage a proper adaptation is to do activities related to the familiarization of the house. For instance, when the child arrives at the new place, recreate spaces that were in the old home or make the environment a pleasant one.
3. Advantages
Let the child know the benefits of moving to a new location. Not only about new friendships, but also the rewarding advantages that are around, such as parks, new environments, facilities, among others.
4. Anticipate concerns
Identifying the child’s discomfort is fundamental, otherwise, it will not be possible to effectively solve the inconveniences that may prevail before, during and after the move.
5. Find a suitable time for the move
the emotional well-being of the child should always be considered. Therefore, it is recommended to make the move in the summer or when the child has school breaks, as it is a way to close the cycle correctly and without any kind of trouble. It is a way for the child to say goodbye to their environment and their life in a certain place.
