Dickerson & Nieman, Realtors,  6277 E Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL 61114 815/381-1195

Kids see things differently than adults. And frequently they worry that everything

Is their fault. Parents can help kids by presenting the move in a positive manner,

Stressing the fun of moving, starting in a new neighborhood, meeting new people,

Etc. For some kids all these ideas may be very threatening. If so, parents are

Wise to delay the announcement until the last minute to reduce the length of time

These youngsters will worry.

Older kids, teenagers especially, see themselves as adult contributors to the family,

so it would be wise to include them in the planning early on. In fact, it is wise

to include all members of the family in as much of the orientation and planning for

the move as possible, so it is viewed as a family event over which they have some

control as a participant.

Deal with anxieties, fears and sorrows with empathy—recognizing that they will

indeed miss their friends. Discuss ways that they can keep their friendships alive

with these special people. Ask direct questions about what they are fearful of,

so that you can brainstorm together options to overcome those fears i.e. making

photo album of everyone they care about.

Some parents have given their youngsters a long  distance phone allowance so they

can keep in touch with people back home. younger children, especially worry about

their toy box or stuffed animals being left behind. Regarding the new home, show

pictures, if they haven’t been able to see the house beforehand. Let them participate

in decorating ideas—pick out their own paint for their room.

Once you have moved, it is best for every member of the family to "get out and meet people".

Get the family outside where the neighbors are. Have the kids create flyers to do baby-sitting or

other odd jobs. Engage in school activities, sports teams, clubs.

Throw an open house of your own to meet the neighbors.

If serious emotional problems  come up seek professional help. Everyone responds

differently, and some of the problems are beyond our ability to handle. Seek help

from a teacher or from your new friends to help identify professional help.

Remember, you have it within your power to make your move positive by taking

action on your own behalf. People around the world are as shy and insecure just as

you are. When you remember that, it makes it easier to approach someone new

and "break the ice" to begin a new friendship.