December 20, 2016, by Emma Sturgis – Rewarding and albeit sometimes challenging, the life of a military man or woman changes rapidly and the American GI with a family must be prepared in the event of alterations to their assignment such as relocation. Relocating your home does not have put a strain on active duty personnel or their family but can be used as an opportunity to see the world and its diverse cultures.
Before You Move
For the most part, a family will have to travel long distances to reach their new home so visiting their new town or base will not be an option. Instead, use Google Maps to peruse the new area’s streets and shops, discovering where everything is located and what is available prior to move-in. Alternatively, research your new town or city’s Chamber of Commerce website and discover local history, small businesses run by locals, and clubs or guilds.
Moving Out And Moving In
It’s difficult to hold a military career and be a parent, but prior to packing a single box, one should consider hiring a moving company, like the professionals at Wheaton World Wide Moving. With over 6,000 moving companies in the United States, it’s easy to find competent and reliable individuals that will help you bubble wrap your favorite vase and pack it safely away in their transport vehicles. Be aware that movers need time to prepare for the journey just as much as you, so make contact with a company as soon as you are aware where you will be stationed and your new home address. They will take the time to estimate the cost of the job at hand and will help you make preparations accordingly such as if you will be packing items yourself or driving the moving van yourself.
You Know What’s Ahead Now, But Children Might Not
Toddlers and young children often have trouble coming to terms with moving, regardless of military status. To ease anguish in toddlers and young children consider turning moving into a game. Have the child put as many of a specific type of object in a box or pile for sorting and the more of those objects they bring, the more points they get. Then have the child exchange his or her points in for a reward of your choosing such as a special dinner or a new item for their soon to be room. In older children, if possible let them pick out a paint color or new rug for the house. As children grow they like to be more involved with the changes made in their lives, and being inclusive allows them to feel as though they have control over the move.
Moving Out But Not Moving On
In today’s world, you don’t necessarily have to say goodbye to your friends once you are reassigned and move. Social media platforms and mobile devices keep everyone connected despite your location. Before leaving, collect as many important phone numbers and addresses as possible, including parents of children’s friends, friends and coworkers, doctors, and even barbers. It helps relieve fear of the unknown having contact with anyone from your prior place of living, especially in children.
If and when one does move during active years of service, it’s important to remember it’s okay to be afraid of the unknown, especially when uprooting a family to be re-stationed. None of this is done alone, however, and fear can easily be transformed into excitement while anxiety can be changed into hope.
About the Author: Emma is a freelance writer based in Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2.