Moving can be hard and confusing for young children. Remember that it is ultimately your choice to move, not theirs. Because of this children might not fully understand why you are moving. Whereas for you it is clear, whether it be for work, for family, for a fresh start etc.

A great way to ease the stress on your children and help them understand why you are moving is to include them in making decisions about other parts of the move. Below are some things you can do. We recommend including their friends in the process for as many of these as you can. Your children’s friends can be your biggest allies or your biggest obstacles during this time. You should do this far enough in advance so that when it comes time to actually move they will be as emotionally prepared as possible.

• Get them to help researching the country you are moving to. A great place to start is to get them to help find photos, videos, movies, history and online expat communities.
• Give them the chance to ask all the questions they may have. Answer these honestly. If you don’t know an answer involve them in finding out the answer.
• Prepare them for possible language barriers by getting language tutors or lessons if necessary.
• Involve them in deciding what they will take or leave behind.
• Ask them what they’ll miss most. Research if those things are available in your new country. Being surrounded by familiar things will comfort them in their new home.
• Get in touch with possible schools and teachers and involve them in communicating with them prior to your move.
• Help them make a plan for how they will communicate with their friends and family back home. Assure them you’ll help them make that possible.
• Try to help create a sense of excitement about their new home. Find out about fun and entertaining or unique things and places your new country will have.
• Research extracurricular activities available in your new country such as sports, gymnastics, dance etc. Do this prior to moving as it can give them something to look forward to.
• Let them spend time with the people they will be leaving behind.
• Perhaps the most important thing you can do is LISTEN TO THEM! Also, don’t assume anything. If they don’t ask you, ask them.