Moving can be difficult for older kids, and teenagers. Leaving friends behind is one of the most heart wrenching things for kids. The preteen and teenage years are when most kids are searching for themselves and friends play a big part in this quest for self identification. Moving away from their peers can cause your teenagers to act out in different ways, but there are a few things you can do to intercede.

First off you have to be aware and attentive to your kids. Pay attention to any change in mood, isolation and other changes they may display that will indicate an emotional imbalance. Secondly, communicate effectively. Do not talk to you teenager all the time, but rather, speak with them. Keeping an open dialogue will make your children comfortable talking to you, openly and honestly.Some teenagers have a hard time opening up and may remain quite while you talk. If this happens, continue to talk to them and try to touch on things that you know will spark interest in them. Let them know you’re always available to talk if they need to. It’s also good to have another adult that you trust available to talk to with your kids in case they are not 100% comfortable expressing themselves to you; maybe an aunt, godparent. This way, they will have guidance and have someone who can encourage them to be more open to you.

Keep your kids busy. Moving is stressful in itself, both emotionally and financially draining, you cannot let the cost of movers, the anxiety of your new job or anything else get in the way of you spending time with your children. The teenage years especially are when kids need the most guidance, even though they seem to be reveling in their independence and don’t want you around most of the time.

Creating activities for your children will help to keep them out of trouble, as the saying goes, “idle hands are the devil’s playground”. You can do things with your teen and also expose them to other kids their age how are doing positive things. The local YMCA or community park is a good resource. Church youth groups and community service activities are also constructive ways for your kids to spend their time. Encourage your children to join school groups and extracurricular activities at their school. Be involved by calling or visiting the school for more information if your teen is not forth coming.

Lastly, and most important, be a parent. Depending on how receptive your child is, you will have to set boundaries when necessary and follow your gut. Do not be too strict or too lax either. Children need and want structure and discipline, whether they express it or not. Sometimes, misbehaving is their way of crying for your attention and discipline when needed is the best way to prove that you love your child. To be involved and parent with rules, positive reinforcement and guidance requires some finesse, but as sure as your moving company insurance protected your items, your teen needs you to be a concerned and involved parent right now to keep them out of trouble.

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