How to Help Young Kids Through a Military Relocation

How to Help Young Kids Through a Military Relocation

For families, a military relocation can be more challenging when there are young kids involved. The kids might not understand why they have to move, might be worried about the moving process, or might be sad about having to leave their friends behind. It is important to take care when moving to help them adjust.

Start Talking About the Move

It is a good idea to start talking about the move well ahead of time. While sometimes there isn't much warning before a move, a move can happen at any time. Mentioning and talking about moving and what it entails once in a while will help reduce the shock of having to move quickly when it does happen. It will also help the youngest understand what moving is if they haven't moved before.

Work With a Realtor

A military realtor has experience and can make the entire process smoother, even if it has to be done in a hurry. They also have experience working with families and may have tips to help the younger kids. Plus, when there is help for the move, it's easier to focus on the kids and make sure they have everything they need during this process 

Start Packing Early

It is a good idea to start packing as early as possible before the move. Make sure the kids are able to help, so they can see that the toys are going in a box, but they aren't going to disappear. Explain that they may need to spend some time in storage or on a moving truck, but that they'll be at the new home.

Talk About the New Location

Families moving to or from Ft. Eisenhower will want to learn a little bit about the new place so they can start talking about it with the kids. Look it up online and talk about the parks, zoos, and other fun things there are to do in the new location so the younger kids can start getting excited.

Have Them Participate in the Move

Don't forget to have the kids participate in the move. They can pack some boxes with their toys, help look at homes to find a bedroom they'd like, and help with important tasks like looking for the moving truck to be ready when it arrives 

If you're planning or preparing for a military relocation, be sure to keep the kids in mind and use the tips here to help them adjust to the changes. By helping them through this carefully, it's possible to minimize the impact frequent moves can have and help them become better adjusted in the long run.