Before the move:
Giving everyone some say in the new home

If possible, take the kids along when house-hunting.  The more input they have in choosing a new home, the more comfortable they're likely to be there.

• Let the kids visit homes in the prospective community via virtual tour on the Web.  Ask them to compile a top five or top 10 list of features they'd like in their new home.
• Once you've narrowed your search, take photos of the inside and outside and let the children weigh in on what they like and dislike.  Once you've made a choice, keep photos of the new house on the fridge or in the family room.           
• Invite your children to start thinking about their new bedrooms, perhaps even planning potential colors for the walls and how the furniture might be arranged.           
• Challenge older children to get online to investigate the new community and become the experts on their new neighborhood, town or city.
  

During the move:
Pitching in with packing

Involve your kids in the packing process with these suggestions:

• Let children sort toys or clothes and decide what they want to keep and what they would be willing to part with.
• Ask older children to take charge of packing up their own bedrooms.
• Ask younger children to personalize the boxes containing their belongings by decorating them.
• Assign everyone a specific job (or two) to help with the move.

After the move:
Making time for family outings

Once you arrive don't be all work! Take a break for family outings that will help your children and you get to know your new community. For a family walking (or driving) tour of your new neighborhood, print out the scavenger hunt.

About Smooth Moves:
Real Estate For Your Kids' World.

Experts agree that making a move can be a collaborative family endeavor that has a positive impact on how everyone, especially children, feel about it.  When everyone feels informed, consulted and considered, everything goes smoother.  By encouraging and respecting children’s ideas and contributions, you can communicate that this is their move too.  This information highlights tips on getting the kids involved every step of the way.