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Share the news early. As soon as you know you are moving, plan a family meeting and share the details of the move and answer all of your children's questions as honestly as you can.
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Whenever possible, involve your children in the home search. If you are unable to take them with you, make sure you take a lot of pictures of your new home, their new school and the neighborhood. Teens are especially interested in their new schools.
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Research children's activities in the new location. Find out what sports and other recreational activities are available in the new area.
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Let your children plan and decorate their new bedrooms. Have them make a plan of where they want their furniture placed and what colors they may want in their new rooms.
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Help your children say "goodbye" to their friends. Plan a going away party and make sure your children have the mailing and e-mail addresses of all of their close friends before you leave town.
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Allow your children to pack a carry-on bag of their favorite things - two or three items that can be carried in a car or on a plane. Having these items immediately upon arrival will help to make the new residence seem less strange.
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Once in your new location, provide your children with some note cards and stamps so they can write quick notes to their friends in the old location.
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Above all, try to stay positive throughout. Your attitude will influence your children's attitude. A positive approach will help ensure a smoother relocation for the entire family.
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There are many excellent books about moving written for children. An Interstate Relocation Counselor can recommend several to you.
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