6 Essential Tips To Help Parents Relocate
Being a parent isn’t easy, especially when moving is involved. Moving in general for those that don’t even have kids is extremely stressful and putting these two life situations together, it’s not for the faint of heart. Fear not, as a parent, because many have been in your shoes and lived to share their own advice on how to make it as smooth as possible. Below are a few tips to make it easier for you and your children.
- Plan Out What You Can– The key to moving successfully, especially as a single parent, is trying to plan as much as you can ahead of time. Generally, three months or so should give you plenty of time to pack, prepare, and find reliable movers to get you to your new destination. Movin always can bring some unpredictable times as well so it’s good to have more time to sort them out. Not to mention the paperwork involved with moving to a new school district, which you need to stay on top of.
- Save What You Can– For parents, moving is a huge financial worry. Sticking to a budget and cutting back on unnecessary expenses is key especially with only one single source of income. Keep costs down to a minimum by using socks, towels, or newspapers to help cushion your boxes instead of purchasing packed peanuts. Reuse card box boxes for your grocery store or office instead of getting new ones. If you are moving for your job some of the expenses may be deductible.
- Talk To Your Kids – Children are more attentive and sensitive than we sometimes give them credit for. As soon as you know that you need to move, have open communication with your children so they won’t find out before you have a chance to tell them in person. Have an open discussion and give them the opportunity to share their feelings and thoughts. They could be super excited or fearful depending on where the move is and it’s up to you on how to frame everything in an optimistic and positive light. Be honest and uplifting about the move and listen to what they have to say about it. They want to feel validated and heard so help them through it if they are feeling anxious or nervous.
- Get Them Involved- Being part of the moving process can help your kids maintain a sense of control which is important during these major changes that are happening around them. Depending on how old they are, it’s best to include them in different tasks or decisions involving moving. Younger kids can help decorate their boxes and make crafts for their new room and home. The older children can help arrange the furniture upon moving in, take apart and neighborhood and school research, and help paint their room.
- Get A Professional Team To Help – As a single parent, your list of obligations and needs are endless. Between housework, work, and parenting you’ll want to try and hire a full-service moving company to assist you. Let a professional take care of the physical aspect of relocating and relieve yourself of unnecessary pressure. If you live in Florida state, one such company to help you is Florida Smart Moving LLC . These Sunny Isles Beach commercial movers are respectful and ensure that all of your items will arrive safely at their destination. Their services include vehicle transportation, fully equipped trucks, loading and unloading, and furniture disassembly and reassembly.
- Reach Out For Support– Lean on relatives, friends, and neighbors. They might not be able to help pack your entire house for you but they can help babysit when you need to run errands, make dinner, or offer a supportive hug. That’s why you have them in your life, for that emotional, physical, and intense support over the big moments in your life. Keep them close and allow them to assist you.
Above all, when it comes to moving for your family, keep the move as positive as you can. Moving is already overwhelming enough but if you can maintain a positive attitude it will make it easier for the whole family. As the parent, you are the family’s center of gravity and your kid’s most significant role model. If you can keep a cool face your kids will most likely follow suit. Not only will this help you, but it’ll be a valuable lesson to deal with change and tackle challenges in their own lives as they get older.
