Navigating Family Relocation: Important Considerations

The process of moving, particularly when it involves changing schools, can be challenging for children. While adults often concentrate on financial aspects, paperwork, and the logistics of family relocation, children are more attuned to the emotional aspects. Moving may evoke feelings of fear, sadness, and even anger in them. It’s crucial to recognize that, especially with frequent moves or during specific developmental stages, relocation can potentially impact school performance, emotional well-being, and social skills. For parents, this underscores the importance of thoughtful preparation for youngsters facing a move. In this article, we’ll explore research on navigating family relocation and provide some tips to minimize the impact on your family.

Studies on Navigating Family Relocation

Regrettably, studies, such as those conducted by the MacArthur Foundation on childhood relocation, indicate that even a single move can have detrimental effects on school-age children. The research revealed that any move during childhood was associated with a nearly half-year loss in educational attainment, as well as lower educational achievement and earnings in later life.

Navigating Family Relocation & Young Children

While very young children (newborns to five years old) generally experience fewer long-term effects, those aged six to ten can face both short- and long-term impacts. Moves during this critical period were linked to later earnings reductions of up to 44%, and individuals who experienced multiple childhood moves were more likely to report lower life satisfaction and psychological well-being in adulthood.

Why are moves during this age range potentially harmful? Referred to as middle childhood, ages six to ten are formative years filled with social, emotional, and academic milestones. Children who relocate frequently during this period may encounter setbacks in meeting these milestones, leading to challenges in behavior, academic performance, and social interactions. The upheaval of family relocation can also leave kids feeling powerless and a profound sense of loss, contributing to these challenges.

Supporting Children During a Move

To support children during a move, it’s often advisable to consider postponing the family relocation until the end of the school year if feasible. Uprooting kids without allowing them to finish their current curriculum or say proper goodbyes can cast the move in a negative light. Instead, strive to create a positive experience.

Additionally, it’s crucial to communicate the news of the move early on. While there may be strong initial reactions, an open dialogue provides children with the opportunity to express concerns and ask questions. Acknowledge their emotions and respond empathetically to make them feel heard. Involving children in the family relocation process, even in small decisions or activities like choosing paint colors, can help maintain a focus on excitement and positive emotions rather than dwelling on the negative aspects.

For more information about the impacts of family relocation on children, check out the following infographic.

Author bio: Stan Caramalac is the founder and CEO of Move Central. He started the company because he truly believed that moving could be simple as long as it was done efficiently. He strives to help people make their moves smoother and less stressful. Caramalac and his team proudly serve San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles and the Bay Area.