WHY YOU SHOULD INCLUDE YOUR CHILDREN IN YOUR HOME SEARCH

No matter how organized you are or how ready you feel, moving is stressful - period! As adults, we’re the ones handling the finances, coordinating the movers, and making sure that boxes get labeled correctly. It can be easy to get caught up in the logistics of it all - trust me, I’ve been there! But as parents, it's important that we don’t overlook the stress that a move can impose on our children (yes, despite the fact that they’re not doing any heavy lifting!). 

Leaving behind familiar surroundings, in some cases not just a home but also a neighborhood and school, can evoke feelings of loss, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future. Even in cases of a divorce where the children will remain in the family home as one parent moves out, this change can disrupt a child’s sense of stability and familiarity.

Overall, the combination of these factors can make moving a stressful experience for children - but it's not all doom and gloom! Patience, support, and understanding can help them navigate the transition successfully. 

While our initial instinct may be to shelter our children, my advice is the opposite - get them involved from the onset! Including your kids in your home search is a fantastic way to ease the transition, provide a sense of autonomy, and maybe even make the process fun! Here are five reasons why you should include your kids in your home search:

THEIR INPUT MATTERS

Including your children in the home search process gives them a sense of involvement and importance. It shows that their opinions and preferences are valued, which can contribute to their overall sense of belonging and well-being within the family.

REDUCING ANXIETY

Moving to a new home can be a major upheaval for children, especially if they are leaving behind familiar surroundings. Including them in the home search process can help alleviate some of their anxiety by giving them a sense of control and ownership over the decision-making process.

FACILITATING OPEN COMMUNICATION

Searching for a new home provides an opportunity for open communication. Especially in the case of a divorce, there can sometimes be a communication breakdown within the family. Discussing preferences, priorities, and concerns can strengthen parent-child relationships and teach children valuable communication skills.

MINIMIZING DISRUPTION TO THEIR ROUTINES

Moving to a new home can disrupt children's routines and social connections. By including them in the search, you can better assess factors such as proximity to their school, friends, and activities, minimizing the disruption to their daily lives as much as possible.

ENCOURAGING ACCEPTANCE OF CHANGE

Including children in the home search process can help them gradually adjust to the idea of living in a new home. It allows them to gradually process and come to terms with the transition, making it easier for them to adapt when the time comes to move.

Overall, including your children in the home search can help them feel supported, empowered, and better prepared for the changes ahead. From letting them pick the paint colour for their new room, to making a day of exploring their new local spots (pizza, anyone?!), there’s plenty we can do to facilitate a healthy adjustment to any new living situation.

Thinking of making a move? When it is time for your new chapter, I’ll be here, ready to help.