How to Navigate Moving with Teens

How to Navigate Moving with Teens

Remember what it’s like to be a teenager? It’s a whirlwind! Throw a major move into the mix and it can turn tragic.  T-N-T Moving Systems has moved many families in the Charlotte area and work at helping relieve the stress of the move. “The physical stuff is the easy part- we’ve been doing it for 20 years. It’s the emotional stress of moving that can be hard,” says Todd Koepke, co-owner of T-N-T, “We can handle the packing, loading, and driving, but preparing the family for the move is just as important.”

Moving to a new city or across town can be stressful on all of us, but for a teenager, it can seem like their whole world is being turned upside down. 

Remember, that it is normal for a teenager or pre-teen to actively rebel against a move. You’re not doing anything wrong as a parent – it’s just a difficult thing for a teenager to accept. Their social group or school is a big part of their life and routine. Some teenagers might look forward to re-inventing themselves at a new place, but change can also be scary.

Here are some tips to make the transition a little smoother:

Let your Teen or Pre-teen Know ASAP

• Waiting to tell your teenager will likely backfire. They might feel betrayed if you keep the move a secret and to delay telling them will likely heighten their emotional response.
•  Your pre-teen and teenage will need time to get used to the idea of moving and begin to grieve leaving their friends behind.

Highlight the Benefits of the New Place to Your Teen

• This is easy if you are simply moving to a new house without a change in zip codes, but if you are moving to a new city or school district, it can be much harder.
• Be sure to research the new school or city first. Find things your teenager might be interested in. Let them know that the move will provide them with great opportunities as well.

Tell Them the Truth About the Move

• Older kids are able to grasp the bigger issues, so don’t be afraid to be honest with them.  Even if they greet the truth with stubbornness or an attitude, the truth will be easier to understand and accept eventually.
• Have an open discussion and listen to their concerns. Try to avoid phrases like “because I said so,” and empathize with their struggle.

Share the Plan with Them

• Involve them with the plans and projected timetable of the move. Let them know what to expect and what you need from them. If one parent is leaving first, explain that to them.
• Let them be involved in the moving process and even in helping to find a new home. Keep them as involved as possible and respect their opinions. Even if you cannot act on every idea they have, let them know their concerns have been heard.

As a parent it can be difficult to manage your families’ emotions as well as the actual physical move. That’s why it can be a great idea to hire professional movers to help alleviate some of the stress. T-N-T Moving Systems has been helping families in the Charlotte, Matthews, Kannapolis, Concord, and Gastonia area move for two decades. If your family is planning a move, call them at 704-523-1455 or visit their website for a free quote.

Kelly Bladl
Google Author and CCP Web Design Writer