Moving can be a complicated and overwhelming process. Add children and pets to the mix and you end up with an even more stressful situation. This is because relocating can easily disrupt your kids’ and pets’ routines, which can cause behavioral changes.
The smallest members of your household don’t understand why their lives are changing and it can be difficult for them to cope. However, with careful planning, moving doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Read on to learn how you can make the relocation experience better for your family.
1. Involve Your Kids in the Move
Talk to your children about the move and make sure to get them involved. For example, let your little ones pack a box of their favorite belongings. You can even bring them along on a house-hunting trip or let them choose the paint color of their new room. These gestures can make your kids feel appreciated and included. This can help them prepare emotionally for the relocation. Be sure to answer any questions they may have as well.
2. Teach Your Kids About the New Area
Help your kids visualize your new home and tell them what you’ve learned about the area. Consider mentioning any fun kids’ attractions such as parks, movie theaters, playgrounds, arcades, etc. This can help them get excited for the move and quell any feelings of fear or anger that they may be experiencing regarding the change.
You can also tell them about their new school and all the fun places the family will get to explore together such as the zoo, sporting facilities, shops and more. Consider making some trips to the new neighborhood with your children to get them acquainted with it.
3. Help Your Little Ones Say Goodbye
Saying goodbye to friends and family can be one of the most challenging parts of a move. Let your children know that they can still stay in touch with their friends. You can even help your kids make cards, pictures or letters to give to them. Encourage your older children to swap emails or social media accounts with their pals so they can stay connected. As a last hurrah, you can host a sleepover to give your youngsters some closure.
4. Take Your Pet for a Checkup
Take your furry friend to the vet before the move. Ensure that it is up to date on all vaccinations. If you’re moving far away and plan to see a new vet in the future, you can ask for a copy of your pet’s medical history. An interstate health certificate may also be needed if you’re transporting your animal companion across state lines. Additionally, you may want to update your furry family member’s registration with the new address.
5. Seclude Your Animal From the Action
Moving day can be hectic and overwhelming, which can stress out your pet. For this reason, consider keeping it in a quiet bedroom, away from the relocation madness. This can also help prevent it from getting loose during the move, since the door is likely to be open. Be sure to provide food, water, toys, litter boxes and other necessities for your four-legged friend.
6. Maintain Your Pet’s Routine
Pets enjoy daily routines. Therefore, the more you alter your furry friend’s schedule, the more likely it’ll feel stressed or anxious. Try to maintain your pet’s routine as best as you can. For example, keep up with your animal companion’s feedings, walks and playtime as well as its morning and evening routines. This can help keep it calm and happy during the transition.
Relocating with children and pets doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these helpful tips, and potentially seeking out an FHA loan, your family can have a smoother moving experience.
Author bio: With over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, team leader Sherry Riano exudes a deep passion for helping families in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Florida and Alabama financially obtain their dream home. Ensuring its clients and business partners are top priority, The Sherry Riano Team consistently takes into consideration each customer’s needs and goals to build a lifelong relationship. With a specialized approach to self-employed borrowers, first-time homebuyers, jumbo loans and VA loans, The Sherry Riano Team has knowledgeable advocates for any customer with which it partners.
