Knowing how to present a major move to little ones can be challenging, but there are strategies and tools you can use to help. Dr Sarah Rasmi, clinical psychologist and founder of Thrive Wellbeing Centre in Dubai, gives us some pointers...
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Also try to include them in as many decisions as you can. This allows them to feel somewhat empowered in the midst of big life and family changes.
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Ask them how they would like to stay in touch with their friends and come to conclusions together (gently steer them away from unrealistic solutions like flying back each weekend!).
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Help them to see the opportunity as well as the loss.
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Give them a chance to check out their new space, bring over keepsakes that are special to them or get them something they’ve been eyeing for a while to have in the new home and to be enthusiastic about.
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If you have more than one child they may react differently. Give each of your children some time to process the information.
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: This will be more helpful than you trying to sweep their feelings under the rug (ie, 'Oh, don't worry, you'll make new friends - you won't even remember John and Salma next year!')
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Fictional depictions of the emotional process facing them can help kids understand and regulate their feelings in the context of life-changing events.
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Print out and frame a photo of your child with their friend, which they can take to their new home and keep in their new room if they like.
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Build the excitement by buying something new for their room as well, and let them pick it out.
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While this can be tricky with timezone differences, sending each other audio notes throughout the day gives everyone something to look forward to.
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