Moving to Alaska with Children

Moving can be difficult for kids. If you involve your children in the move, it will be more comfortable and less traumatic.

• Discuss the move in advance with your kids. Having fears and feelings of sadness is normal.
• Allow them to visit your new home and pick their new room/ paint color.
• Organize a going away party with your kids’ friends to share new address, phone numbers, e-mail address and photos of the new house.
• Visit their new school if possible. Meet the teacher(s). Get a list of clubs and activities that are being offered.
• Get information about other activities in your new community, such as gymnastics, ballet, soccer, etc. Visit those of interest.
• After the move, encourage your children to stay in touch with their past friends, communicate and share photos.
• When starting a new school, encourage your children to get involved in school activities. It’s a great way to meet new friends!
• Help your kids get settled in their new room as soon as possible so that they can focus on all their new activities and new friends.
• Encourage kids to invite their new friends over to your home or plan a fun outing.Be patient. It takes time to settle in a new community and adjust to the environment. Things will get better in time.