Most of the times we make major life decisions without bringing our children into the early discussions, announcing the decision when it’s already been made. This gives them little room for input, making them feel resistant and powerless. They might be angry that the decision was made without any discussion together beforehand. If you are considering a relocation, bring your teens and older children in on the discussion early on. If you end up moving, they’ll feel that they had some input and control in the decision, which could make a world of difference. Some guidelines on including your kids in the early discussion: Organize a preview trip to your new location with your kids. (Let them be active part of the new home/new school decision.) Try to put yourself in your kids’ shoes and listen to their worries. Encourage them to make a list of pros and cons. (They probably have some valid points.) Have them help with the research of schools and neighborhoods. (They’ll have a sense of ownership in the decision.) Make a game of who can find the coolest new thing to do your new location (shopping center, sport activities…) Once you’re in the process of relocating, these five extra tips will help everyone: Contact the local Internet service provider to have Internet connection up and running before move-in day. (This is as equally important for you as it is for your teens.) If you wait until you arrive, it may be several days or weeks before service can be ready. Let the kids make decisions on the color, layout and décor of their room Even though you’re busy settling in, make sure you take time to enjoy the “cool stuff” the kids researched. Fun times together will help your family settle in quicker. Enroll them in activities where they can meet other kids with similar interests, like soccer, photography, game design, acting classes … whatever interests they have. Start a piggy bank with spare change to save up for a best-friend or family visit. The more involved they are in the decision and process since the beginning, the more likely everyone is to make a successful transition. You can find more helpful tips on moving on our website. Our local office will be happy to help you when you’re ready to relocate.