Moving with Children

Moving can be stressful, even
for adults. But it can be even harder and more perplexing for children, whether they are toddlers or in high school.
• Inform children early. As soon as a move becomes imminent, share this information with your children.
• Keep a positive attitude in their presence. If the move is job-related and unexpected, don't let them sense any dread or foreboding.
• Allow children to openly talk about the move and to have input in the de-cisions when appropriate.
• Remind children often that although everything seems to be changing, the family is still secure as a unit.
• Involve children in packing their personal belongings.
• Help them accumulate memoirs of their present home and friends in an
organized manner.

wpe6E.jpg (7563 bytes)

• Consider moving during the school session to avoid summer anxiety related to the first day of school. Be sure they are dressed like the local children on the first day of school to avoid being labeled "different."
• Locate school bus stops in the new neighborhood to avoid stress on the first day.

Checklist for Moving
Moving can be a hectic time.
There are many things to
do and many details to remember. Some you might not consider. Here is a checklist that may help your move smoother.

Send change of address to:
• Post Office, with forwarding address
• Creditors - credit card companies and local charge accounts
• Magazine publication houses - address change for subscriptions takes several weeks.
• Friends and relatives.

Contact:
• Utility companies and get refunds on all your deposits.
• Route men - newspaper, milk and laundry. Stops services on a given date.
• Doctors and dentists. Ask for referral. Transfer x-rays, prsecriptions for medication, vision correction.
• Bank - Transfer funds; arrange for check cashing and credit approval in your new city.

• Auto registration - Arrange for transfer, if necessary, fo car title, drivers' license, inspection stickers. Transfer Motor Club memberships.
• Insurance companies - Life, health, fire and auto. Supply them with new address information to assure uninterrupted coverage.
• Church, clubs, civic organizations - Transfer memberships; get letters of introduction.
• Veterinarian - Ask about regulations, licenses, vaccinations, tags, etc.

Remember to:
• Consult with your moving company to check insurance coverage, vacancy clause, packing and unpacking assistance, arrival date, necessary shipping papers, payment arrangements.
• Empty freezer. Plan for use of foods. Defrost refrigerator and dispel any odors with charcoal.
• Have appliances served for moving.
• Arrange to clean clothing and rugs. Have them wrapped for moving.
• Plan for special needs for infants.

On Moving Day
• Carry cash, jewelry and documents yourself or use Registered Mail.
• Carry travelers' checks for quick available funds.
• Notify friends or relatives of the route you are taking and travel schedule.
• Double-check drawers, closets and shelves to make sure they are empty.