Removals - Moving with Children
Moving is always an anxiety-filled experience, but never more so, than when you have to move with children. Adults can deal with stress in various ways, they can ignore discomfort and find rational solutions. Adults can distract themselves with work and make the best of a stressful situations. Children are not like that, as any parent will already know. A child will scream and cry or cause mischief when they don't get enough attention. On top of everything, children - particularly toddlers and young children are extremely curious. And while the little explorer phase is something to be marveled at, the little ones' curiosity can really get in the way when everything has to be quick, well scheduled and organized. There are however, some things you can do to keep your kids entertained and happy during the move, while also keeping them out of the way.
1. The first thing to do on moving day is to have a big, healthy breakfast. No sugary cereals or junk food. These can really make your child hyper-active and if that happens, nothing can stop them from running around causing trouble all day long. Big no-no.
2. During breakfast, or any time before the movers arrive, make sure to sit down with your children and explain to them why they shouldn't be too loud or disruptive during the day. Do not make it sound like a lecture and don't make your kids feel like they've done anything wrong. Try to explain in a positive way that they'll be helping you by doing this.
3. Assign the kids a special room in the house (their own room would be the best) and some space in the yard, where they can play freely. Do not store any boxes or baggage in the area. Try to keep the kids away from the stress of the move as much as possible. This will work best if you have more than one child and all of your little ones are at a similar age, so that they enjoy playing with each other. Alternatively, you could arrange for them to stay with a friendly neighbouring family, where they would get to play with other children and you could pick them up when it is finally time to move the family.
4. If you absolutely cannot keep your little explorers away from the move, try to get them involved in a productive way. Tell them to pack their clothes or toys for example. Give them tasks to keep then out of the way. And always remember to give them some kind of reward - be it a hug or a chocolate bar - for their efforts. This will make the little ones feel like they are actually contributing and it will help teach them the value of hard work. It is important that you don't let them know you're simply trying to get them out of the way. Create a sense of accomplishment in your kids for every task that they help you with.
5. Before the day begins, fill up water bottles for everyone. You never know when someone is going to be thirsty and whether the kitchen will be busy at that time. A dehydrated child is an unhappy child. Similarly, prepare a good filling lunch and healthy snacks with complex carbs. This way you will help your children stay healthy, happy and energetic during the move.