Real Estate and YOU
July 3, 2019
The Challenge of Moving with Children and Pets
Moving can be unnerving for children. The young ones may be confused with the change in their routine and the older ones may feel uncomfortable in finding new friends. What are some steps that you, as a parent, can take to help ease the transition?
1) Good Communication: It’s important to provide your children with as much information as possible. Encourage open conversations about the new home, school and neighborhood. Let them ask you questions and allow them to be part of the decision making process. This will help them ease their worries during the change that’s coming.
2) Manage your stress: If you are a stressed, your children will feel it. Having a plan will ease the moving day stress. Prepare a moving checklist, stay organized and pack wisely.
3) Rehearse ahead of time: Let your children participate in the move by packing their own things. Take your children to look at potential neighborhoods and schools. Act out moving day and tell moving stories to build up their anticipation.
Moving with pets also requires a lot of planning. Like their owners, they can feel the stress of the situation.
Cats should be restrained in a hard sided carrier as should other small animals. You may also cover the carrier with a sheet until they relax, but allow proper ventilation. Dogs should also be restrained with a safety harness or safety gate. Pack an extra bag for your pet that includes food, water, first aid and extra towels in case of accidents. Some states require you to have a current health certificate on pets for interstate travel. Highway patrol have the right to inspect it and you can be fined if you do not have one.
