Relocating or moving can be stressful for everyone in the family, but it can particularly hard on older kids and teens. They are established, comfortable and know their friends and their neighborhood. Sure, they may be up for the adventure, but there still might be some hurt feelings and pushback. There may not be much you can do about the latter, but parents can certainly emphasize the adventure, to keep your kids focused on the good in this major life change.
Here are 4 ways to get your teens involved in your move and help them focus on what they are about to gain rather than what they are leaving behind.
Your teenager may be upset because they don?t really have a say in the decision overall, but allowing them to help you decide on your travel route gives them back a bit of that independence and control. Plus, this responsibility can help them learn about map reading, travel budgets and how to overcome obstacles like rush hours, traffic backups and unforeseen circumstances on the road. If you are traveling cross-country or overnight, allow them to help you decide when to stop for meals and travel breaks.
While your kids might have something to say about picking the new house, since they are not the buyers, take that advice with a grain of salt. Understand that teens will be focused on different aspects of home life and amenities than you will be. Instead, encourage them to research the new neighborhood. Where are the closest parks, coffee shops, libraries, bike trails, public pools and other places to hang out? Have them create a list of fun things to do and interesting places to go in your new neighborhood before you get there. Then, once you arrive, cruise around to those places so your kids can see what they look like live rather than online.
Sure, the kids may not be part of the overall purchase decision, but they can still decide what to do with their rooms. If you are not moving too far away, or the property allows for a virtual tour, give your kids the opportunity to see the new place and make plans before moving day. Encourage them to try something new when it comes to style, color or d?cor. As part of your moving budget, set aside some cash for their room redecoration. Make it specific and encourage thrifty shopping. If money is tight and they want something above and beyond, it can always come out of their own pockets.
Don?t call it a ?goodbye? party. Instead, remind your kids that they will get to see their friends again soon. If you are moving fairly close, be sure to set dates for hanging out again after you get situated. If you are moving farther away, make sure all the families have each other?s phone numbers, emails and Skype handles for face time chats!
For more tips on family moves, check out our ?Moving with a Family? series. What are some of your tips for moving with a family?
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Source: http://www.smithandassociates.com/blog/2013/05/relocate-to-tampa-bay-4-tips-for-moving-with-teens/
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