How to Help Your Toddler Adjust to Moving

So you’re moving into a new area, and with that arises new opportunities and new beginnings. Moving can be a challenge for anyone, but it can be even more testing for a toddler who is not part of the decision making process. 

Switching your child’s schools or moving a teenager can prove difficult, but moving a toddler brings its own set of challenges to the table. It’s important to help your child to understand that nothing is staying behind, and that you will all be there together as a family when you relocate to your new home. Helping a toddler deal with change is all about validating their feelings. It’s important to listen to them and to communicate fairly. Here are a few ways that you can ease the big moving transition to help your toddler adjust to moving. 

Look from your child's perspective

When it comes to helping your toddler adjust to the move, it is important to put yourself in their shoes. Young children prosper with structured routines, so big changes such as moving may be disorientating. It will be normal for your child to display uncharacteristic behaviour during this time, so it is important to assess the situation from their perspective. Many toddlers act out physically when dealing with these kinds of changes, so be patient with them as they learn to deal with emotion. Your child will simply require a little additional support.

Talk to them 

Processing a move can be hard for anyone, especially young children. To prevent unnecessary shock, it is sometimes best to talk to your toddler about the move a few months ahead of the big day. This will make the goodbye a little easier for them to process, and whilst it may not take away the challenges of moving, it will be less of a stressful time. Many young children may not be able to fully grasp the concept of moving, so it is important to prepare your child by speaking to them. Here are a few things to tips to help:

• Tell your toddler that everything will stay the same in your new home. The family and your usual routines will not change.
• Remind your toddler that nothing will be left behind, all toys and furniture will be coming with you.
• Tell your child exactly what to expect on the day.
• Allow them to make their own decisions, e.g. Do they want to choose an outfit for the move? 
• Speak with them properly and avoid the use of baby-talk. This gives them enough time to listen properly.

Take your child to the community

Now that your child understands that the move isn't necessarily a bad thing, it is important to get them familiar with the area that you are moving to. This can sometimes make them feel more excited about the move. Consider taking them to a park or taking them on a fun walk, so that your toddler associates the new area with happy memories. Your child will see this as an adventure.

On the day of the move, it is important to keep calm and ensure that your child understands what is happening. It’s important to explain to them step-by-step what is going on to make them feel in the loop. Once everything is packed and you're ready to move, encourage your child to say goodbye to each room in the house. This closure will be good for both you and your child. 

Get in touch with your local Bishop’s Move for more moving advice. We can advise you on the best local schools in the area for your child and can make your move run seamlessly. Request your free quote today.