Moving Anxiety in Children
Helping children deal with upset feelings moving
to a new home, community
Moving anxiety is normal. Change can be scary and hard, and
adults can help children by acknowledging this. A few simple
steps can help children with the transitions that come with moving, as
we discussed in our answer to the parent who asked us the following
question:
QUESTION: My children are upset because we are moving away from the
small town, where they have lived all their lives, to a big city. How
can I help them?
ANSWER: Tell your children that it is normal to be upset and that
they can talk about their unhappy feelings with you all they want.
They can be angry, sad, and scared. Make plans for how they can stay
in touch with friends by e-mail and phone.
If possible, let your children visit the new city with you before
the move so that they can see the exciting fun things that their new
home will have to offer. Children who are new to a school are
potential targets for bullies, so be extra aware, especially if the
move has to happen in the middle of the school year.
After you move, even though you may be very busy adjusting to the
transition yourself, get involved in your childrens' new schools so
that you can get to know their teachers, fellow students, and other
parents. Ask for advice about age-appropriate activities your children
can be part of. Be sure that your children have personal safety
training so that they are streetwise.
Moving anxiety, like other forms of worry and concern, can be
reduced by practicing skills to deal with potential problems.
Practicing skills can also increase confidence. In this case,
skills for meeting new people, finding their way around new places,
and getting help are just a few of the powerful skills that might help
your children feel more confident moving to their new community.
©
Copyright 2004. All rights reserved.
A publication of KIDPOWER TEENPOWER FULLPOWER International
www.kidpower.org
831-426-4407
Permission to reproduce granted with copyright notice and contact
information
at beginning and end of each article used.
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