This is the time of year that many people move – the school
calendar sets many schedules. That first lease signed after college graduation
sets the timetable for all subsequent moves and no one wants to disrupt a
child’s school year. Even with optimal timing, it’s never easy to move.
Moving to a new community is one of the most stressful
experiences a family faces (and a family might be a singleton). Moves are even
more difficult if accompanied by death, divorce, loss of family income and
change of job/school. Many people don’t anticipate the physical and emotional
toll of moving.
It’s important to plan and to break things down into smaller
tasks. It’s crucial to communicate with others – having a grand plan is of
little use if no one else knows how to help. Be kind to one another –
alleviating a child’s stress will help the entire family. Share happiness as
well as concerns. Set reasonable goals and reasonable boundaries. Reality shows
are not real – don’t expect to host a housewarming party in a beautifully
decorated home two weeks after the moving vans pull away.
After the move, spend time together getting to know the new
area, even if it’s only a few blocks from the old home. Get involved in the new
community as quickly as possible, but be sure to take breaks to regroup and
recharge.
Moving disrupts the everyday routines that add order to our
lives. We develop confidence when the home life is stable. Try to maintain a
good exercise regimen and make wise food choices. Get enough sleep. Try to find
some fun among the chaos. Moving is not easy, but staying put is not an option.
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