How to Move with Kids Over the Holidays
Posted on November 23, 2011
Change means something different to people of all ages. When people are older, change is often constant, and can have little effect on their emotions. For young adults, it is something they are getting used to; but for children, change can largely affect the way they grow up and view the world. As parents and guardians, we must be sensitive to this, especially when it comes to moving. With the holidays right around the corner, American Van Lines would like to take this time to recommend ways in which to accomplish a long distance move without putting too much stress on your children.
Keep Them Involved
While shopping for a new home, make sure to keep your kids a part of the process. You can treat the experience like holiday shopping, sending them pictures of future homes and bedrooms. Ask what they would love to see in their new home, and show them images of the new schools and parks they’ll get to enjoy.
Make the Move a Vacation
While on the road, make the most out of your trip. Adults can easily make it through a boring drive, but this is utterly painful for children. Spread the process out if you can, stopping at kid-friendly hotels and sights. Also, load the car with entertaining road trip games and play holiday music when you can!
Don’t Forget the Holiday
It easy to forget the holidays while in the midst of a major relocation, which is why we encourage you to strive for overcompensation. Whether this means purchasing a holiday blanket for the car, stopping to visit Santa at a nearby mall, and even allowing the kids to open a few gifts along the way, be sure to plan just how you will include the holidays during transit.
Things to Consider
The location of where you choose to finally celebrate the holidays will have a lasting memory on your children. If you decide to have your kids open presents in their old home, this will allow you and your family to enjoy one last holiday in an environment they are most comfortable. However, this might also prove to be impractical, as you’ll create more work for yourself when it comes to packing. Other options include stopping at a family member’s home on the way to your new city and celebrating with them. Finally, you could wait until you are in your new home; however, this risks stress from trying to balance unpacking and rebuilding furniture while putting up decorations. Fortunately, with American Van Lines accomplishing all of your relocation tasks, the stress would be quite minimal.
Whatever you decide, remember to consider how such changes will affect your children. For other tips and advice on handling a long distance move, be sure to find us on Facebook or follow us @americanvanline.
