Big changes can be really hard on adults, but they are especially difficult for children—who, depending on their age, might not understand why the change in environment is happening.
Whether you're planning a total life overhaul by moving to a new country, or your child is simply starting a new school or kindergarten, these tips will be useful for both you and them.
1. Give Them Time to Prepare ⌛️
If possible, explain to your child what is going to happen and when. Of course, sometimes life brings sudden changes, but in cases where the change is planned, it's best to let your children get used to the idea incrementally.
2. Have a Prepared Answer for Their Questions 🤨
Your child may have many questions like, “Why are we moving?”, “Why am I changing schools?”, or “Will I still see my old friends?” Anticipate these questions and prepare answers in advance to help reassure them.
3. Listen to Their Concerns 👂
Let them know that you're always there to listen and support them. Acknowledge and validate their feelings without being judgmental, dismissive, or distracting. Let them know it's okay to be afraid of change and offer reassurance regarding their worries.
4. Make Them Excited for the Change 🤩
Tell them about the positive aspects of the upcoming change. If you're moving to a new place, mention a theme park or something that aligns with their interests. If they’re starting a new school or educational chapter, highlight it as a sign of growing up.
5. Perform a "Goodbye Ritual" 👋
Goodbyes are important. If your child isn’t given time to say goodbye and grieve the past, the transition may feel traumatic. Help them make peace with the change by allowing them to say goodbye in a meaningful way.
6. Familiarize Them with the New Place 🙇♀️
Take them to their new school before the term starts so they can explore the environment on their own terms. If you're moving to a new country, consider visiting it first or trying local foods to give them a sense of the new culture without the finality of the move.
7. Provide a Stable Emotional Anchor 👩👦
This builds on listening to their concerns, but also emphasizes the need to be a consistent point of stability. Be present, give them your time and attention, and don’t let yourself get too swept up in the changes. That way, your child will know they can rely on you.
8. Give Your Child a Feeling of Control 💪
Let your child be involved in decisions related to the transition. Maybe they can choose how to decorate their new room or pick a new backpack. This helps them feel empowered rather than helpless in the face of change.
9. Keep Routines the Same ✅
Routine is essential when navigating new environments. It provides stability and security in a child’s daily life. Bedtimes, mealtimes, and other key elements of their schedule should remain as consistent as possible. Avoid making too many changes at once.
10. Encourage Socialization with New Friends 👯♀️
A stable social circle is a critical support network. Making new friends will help your child adapt more quickly and feel supported. Encourage social interaction and arrange playdates when possible. #stem #STEAMeducation #STEM #stemeducation #paris #ABISchoolParis #InnovationForKids #ParisParents #STEAMKids #CreativeLearning #FutureOfEducation #EducateToEmpower #ParentTips #TogetherWeLearn #ParisEducation #moving #movingtips #movingkids
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