5 steps to prevent your children from suffering when moving abroad

“Many child development experts see moving as one of the most disruptive events in a child’s life”, says Dr. Arlen Fulton, of Ohio State University.

Children use to suffer the process silently, with higher stress levels than their parents who, focused on the technical problems of the move, don't pay them enough attention.

We know you don't want to watch your son become anxious nor violent. You obviously don't wish him to feel alone or to suffer too much being "the new kid" in school. Of course you wouldn't like him to think his life is falling apart. But, how could you avoid it? After all, sometimes moving is necessary and unavoidable.

Worry no more, and follow these 5 steps to successfully moving with children.

1. Talk about it.

Listen to your children's thoughts on moving, accept their feelings upon it, and do not force them into liking the idea. Answer their questions and attend their restlessness, and above everything else talk to them with the truth. Do not keep them out of the process. The best thing to do is keep them informed from the moment you decide to move until things return to normal in your new house.

2. Put a good face!

Children, especially young ones, are sponges that not just absorb, but magnify your attitude towards things. If you are positive every time you talk about moving, they will join you in your happiness. If you are complaining, arguing, crying or worrying, they'll feel that the move is nothing less than malignant and fatal.

3. The unknown scares.

Human beings of any age fear what they do not know. If your kids do not know what's coming, it will probably terrify them. So get all possible information about the city you're moving to, the type of people they'll meet, which of their favorite restaurants they'll be able to find, or how close is the nearest park. Show them pictures and videos; let them know where they're going.

4. Their room goes first.

Nothing -remember it well (if you care about your children's emotional stability)- is more important in your move than their room. Take the things that make them feel at home, their favorite blanket or pillow, a particular toy. Unpack and organize their room before the rest to rapidly provide them with a familiar atmosphere while the rest of the house is in order.

5. Reassure them, love them and set a good example.

"Home is Where the Heart Is" is a phrase you probably have heard, and yet may not understand its application in a move. Your house can completely change, but your home is the love, support, unity and caring between family members. Make sure your children have these four things, and they will probably miss their past house but not their home. Finally, set the example meeting new friends and merging into your new community with enthusiasm.

We want you to help you with these and more tips; help us help you by visiting How to move to Mexico

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by Mauricio Pozas