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The Emotional Toll of Moving on Children: Understanding the Difficulties

Updated: Jun 8, 2023

Adults may find moving to a new house to be a thrilling adventure that presents new possibilities and chances. It's important to note, though, that youngsters may find the experience extremely difficult. Moving may have a big emotional impact since it requires adjusting to a new setting as well as leaving behind old ones. This blog will examine the reasons why children find relocating to be challenging and provide some advice on how parents may help their children during the transition.


1. Changes to Routine and Familiarity: 

Children depend on consistency and comfort. Their regular routines are disturbed when they move, cutting them apart from the reassuring predictability they have become accustomed to. Feelings of loss, worry, and even loneliness can result from leaving behind friends, neighbors, schools, and other special locations.


2. Loss of Security and Belongingness:

A child's sense of security and belonging can be devastated by moving to a new place. They are no longer in the comfortable, familiar environment they were once in. This loss can make someone feel vulnerable and uneasy about integrating into a new community, making friends, and finding their place.


3. Emotional bond with the Old House:

Children frequently form strong emotional ties to their homes. With the physical environment they grew up in, memories, sentimental items, and a sense of identity become entwined. As they say goodbye to a big part of their lives, the idea of leaving all that behind can cause them to feel sad and grievous.


4. Getting Used to a New Setting:

For kids, adjusting to a new environment can be a difficult task. They must learn new routes, negotiate strange environments, and adapt to various social dynamics. They must forge new bonds with professors and classmates while attempting to fit in to the new academic environment, making the change in schools particularly difficult.


Supporting Children through the Moving Process:


1. Validation and Communication:

Throughout the moving process, encourage your child to be open with you. Reassure them that their emotions are normal and validate any sadness or anxiety they may be experiencing. Tell them you are aware of their struggles and that you are available to help.


2. Getting to Know the New Environment:

Before the move, help your child get to know the new neighborhood and community. Visit the new school, stroll through the neighborhood parks, and highlight the exciting possibilities nearby. Some of their anxiety can be reduced by becoming accustomed to their new environment.


3. Maintaining Connections:

Encourage your child to stay in touch with old friends by setting up calls, video chats, or, if possible, visits. This consistency can give them a sense of stability and serve as a reminder that cherished relationships can endure despite distance.


4. Establishing Routines:

Your child's sense of stability can be restored by establishing new routines in the new house. Establish regular mealtimes, bedtime customs, and designated areas for each person's personal belongings. During times of change, consistency and structure can act as a calming anchor.


5. Participation in Decision-Making:

Include your child in discussions about decorating their new room or other areas of the new house. They will feel a sense of ownership and control if you involve them, which will make the transition easier.


Children who have to leave behind the familiar and adjust to a new environment may find moving to be emotionally difficult. Parents can help children transition more easily and less stressfully by being aware of their feelings, offering support, and involving them in the process. For more details, visit our site.


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