Talking to your preschooler before the move is a key element to helping her transition smoothly. Explain what a move is and why your family needs to move to a new house or town. Talk to her about all the fun and exciting things she will experience upon moving, such as a bigger yard to play in or her own room to decorate, for example. Start preparing for the move at least a month in advance to give your preschooler plenty of time to adjust and process the information and experience.
When packing her favorite items, leave a few out to provide her with comfort. Having your preschooler help with the packing and moving items makes her feel like part of the process. This will help her make the transition and move more easily. Continue to talk to your preschooler while packing items to assure her the move will be fun and she will enjoy her new home.
Moving can be a hectic time in any family's life, but sticking to your tried and true routines is of importance to your preschooler. Preschoolers thrive on structure and routine, so they will need to eat dinner, have baths, and go to bed at around the same time as normal. This will help your preschooler feel secure and safe despite the chaos a move can present.
Arrange for your preschooler to say good bye to friends and playmates before moving if you are moving out of town or to a different neighborhood. Set up one last play date or have a small get together to allow the children time to say their goodbyes. Have your child make a special card for her friends as a way to remember her if you are moving far away. Arrange for your child's friends to come and play once you get settled in your new home if you will be close enough.
Do something special for your preschooler on the day of the move, such as having a small gift waiting at the new home or cooking her favorite meal. This will help her feel better about leaving her comfort zone and can help her adjust more readily to a new bedroom or home. Allow your child time to adapt to her new surroundings; you may want to allow her to sleep on the floor in your room for a night or two until she feels comfortable in her own room.