Effects of Moving on a Child

We all know the importance of child development. Moving can be tough on kids, especially at a developmental age. There are numerous effects of moving on a child that can influence their performance in school, interactions with other kids, and overall behavior. If you are getting ready to make a move to Baton Rouge, consider the following things when moving your children.

Emotional Effects of Moving

The effects of moving on children vary depending on their age. When a child is moved between the time they are born and the time they start kindergarten, they are likely to experience delayed functions in emotional understanding within themselves as well as others. These emotions can include excitement, anger, and frustration. It could also alter a child's ability to be empathetic.

If you are moving a child who is already finishing their elementary school years, the effects can range from social-emotional to cognitive functions. The same is true for children who are in their secondary level of schooling, though the effects tend to be less severe at these ages.1

How to Help Your Child Cope with Moving Anxiety

It may be just as hard, or harder, for your little ones to process a move. There are ways to ease the stresses of moving on your children. Our Baton Rouge residential movers suggest focusing on the exciting and fun parts about moving. Here are the best ways to transition children:

• Discuss the move with your kids from the very beginning, both the positive and negative aspects.

• Let your child or children express their opinions and feelings about moving. Listen.

• Turn the move into a fun family event. Give them a small task so they feel involved.

• Introduce your kids to the new neighborhood, pointing out some of the fun things they could do after the move.

• Get the family involved in the community. Attend local events like the weekly farmer's market or a seasonal celebration.

• Encourage your child to stay in contact with old friends.

Worst Age to Uproot a Child from their Neighborhood

Moving with children who are in their teenage years (between middle and high school) can pose a challenge. This is the age that children are learning the most about who they are and trying to settle into a group of friends. Because of this, teenagers are more reluctant about being uprooted.

Teenagers are also hesitant about moving because they're worried about whether or not peers at a new school will accept them. It is best to approach these situations with understanding and patience. Encourage them to find their own positive perspective on the move that will help them understand how to handle change. It will become a useful tool for them in their future as well.

Not all moves with teenagers will be challenging. If your teenager is receptive to change and actually searching for a new beginning, then this can be a great period of growth for them.

How to Talk to Your Children About Moving

It's easy for your children to feel left out and ignored in the process of moving. Instead of distracting them so you can focus on preparations, include your children in the process and maintain open communication with them. The Baton Rouge movers of All My Sons Moving & Storage recommend the following tips to help minimize the negative effects of moving on a child:

• Don't wait until the last minute to tell your children about the move.

• Be open and honest about why the family is moving.

• Provide all the information you can about the move.

• Encourage your children to ask questions and answer them honestly.

• Remind your children that you all are a team.

• Give them reasons to be excited about moving.

All My Sons Moving & Storage understands that you already have your hands full with countless relocation tasks. Our Baton Rouge local movers are dedicated to delivering a seamless move with services to meet all your relocation needs from packing to storage. Trust us to get your belonging to Louisiana safely and efficiently.

Sources:

1. MacArthur Foundation: How Housing Matters - Is Moving During Childhood Harmful?

Related Reading:

Tips For Moving with Children