If you’re planning on a relocation soon and are also a parent of a teenage child, it’s likely crossed your mind how they’ll handle the move. The truth is that every move and every teenager will be different, but it’s good to keep in mind that relocating is not just stressful for those making the arrangements. It can have a big impact on your teenage child as well.
That said, doing what you can to help your teen adjust to the move, be a part of the process, and get excited about where they’re going is key to helping them be a part of a successful move. Keep reading for ways you can prepare for a move with your teen.
Key Considerations in Planning for a Move with Your Teen
Start the move discussions early. Giving your teenager(s) time to adjust to the idea of moving is key. Doing so will cause less stress. Share the reasons why the move is happening. If you can, think about sharing any part of the move that may be particularly exciting to them. Perhaps the new neighborhood is near a skatepark or they’ll have a bigger bedroom in the new house. Any silver linings you can highlight can be helpful. When you have these discussions, really listen to how they feel — whether they’re anxious, excited, or indifferent in the moment. Let them know it may be stressful, but that you’ll be there to support them.
Take your time with the actual move (if you can). Involve your teens in the process in the ways that you’re able. Can they help with the househunting and share their thoughts? Maybe let them research areas of interest near your new location, like movie theaters, parks, and schools. When it comes to the actual move, you may consider trying to do it slowly. One way to spread it out may be to bringing over boxes to your new location first and have your larger items transported in the coming days. Again, a slower transition may help your teen warm up to the process and idea of relocating.
Try not to make moving the ultimate cleaning and sorting event. Asking your teen(s) to go through their belongings and clothes to get rid of old items and ones they no longer use may be overwhelming in addition to getting used to the impending move. Make sure they are able to take familiar items with them so that it can help them get comfortable quicker in your new home. Unless they need assistance, it may be a good idea to try not to pack up everything for them. Let your teenager take the lead on organizing and packing their belongings for the move. You can certainly offer your help to make the process less overwhelming.
Consider the school situation. If you’re able to keep your teen(s) in the same school they’ve been attending, great! You may decide to do this even if it’s not as convenient to get them there after the move. However, you also may not have that option if you’re moving farther away. If that’s the case, do what you can to help them adjust. Make sure to get them registered at their new school as soon as possible. That way, if there is any catching up your teen needs to do to prepare they have time before they join their new classmates. Get familiar with the new school’s policies and dress code. Getting a school tour, as well as speaking with guidance counselors and teachers ahead of time is also ideal. You may consider arranging for a tutor to ensure your teen is up to speed with what their new class is currently covering. All in all, being as prepared as possible will help your teen transition into a new school.
Support your teen’s existing friendships. Before the move, consider if you’re able to have a going away celebration for your teen and invite their friends. You could also try to have a packing party, so their friends can be there to help them pack up their stuff and keep the mood light. You’ll also want to help your teen find ways to spend time with their old friends after the move. It can be really stressful for those who’ve been displaced from familiar faces and friends. Make trips back to your old neighborhood if you’re able. You could also help your teen set up video chats with their pals so they can catch up and play games. This will help them realize that while their surroundings have changed, they still have friends in their lives.
Help your teen get set up and excited in their new space. Once you’ve made the move, make organizing your teen’s room a priority so that they can get settled in as soon as possible. As you’re unpacking their belongings and other parts of home, you can make it a fun activity by sharing snacks, a meal, and talking about what you’re excited about in your new location. You might make plans to check out the nearby park, restaurant, or museum. You could also make a list of items you’ll need to go pick up together to put the finishing touches on your teen’s room. Help them see that you’re making memories; document the process of moving in and making the space your own together.
Talk about and validate your teen’s feelings. Moving is stressful for everyone, and it’s certainly the case for teenagers. You may plan ahead and try many strategies to help your teen get through and adjust after a move. They still may find the process and what comes next a challenge. Rather than shrugging them off or telling them to be positive, acknowledge their feelings when they tell or show you what’s on their mind. Be real with them about how you feel about moving. Extra hugs and support may be just what’s needed.
Take notice of any changes in your teen after the move. If your teen continues to have trouble adjusting to their new school, home, or community, it’s wise to check in. Moving can be a really challenging and even traumatic experience for some. Does your teenager seem to be depressed, anxious, angry, or distraught? Talking with them about therapy and investigating it as an option to further process how they’re feeling may be a good idea. Assure them that getting outside help is okay and that speaking with someone about what they’re going through is a way to get additional support.
Handling the arrangements for a move is more than enough for any one person to handle. Adding teenage children to the mix adds a whole other level of challenges. Having experts on your side from Two Guys And A Truck NYC Moving and Storage can clear your plate for handling what matters most. Whatever your needs may be, such as moving supplies, packing and unpacking services, or storage options, our professionals will help you with your relocation from start to finish. Make your move with us, so you can spend your time where it’s needed to support those you love.