Helping Your Kids Adjust to Moving After Divorce: A Guide for Minneapolis - St. Paul Parents

Divorce is one of the most difficult challenges a family can endure, and for children, it can bring about profound changes—emotionally, logistically, and physically. When a parent plans to relocate after a divorce, discussing the move with children can be a particularly sensitive conversation that requires thoughtfulness and careful consideration. As a parent navigating this transition, approaching the situation with empathy and planning can help ease the adjustment process for your children.

Timing is Everything

When telling your kids about the move, timing matters. It's important to choose a time when both parents can be present (if possible) and when the children are calm and not already dealing with other stressors. Consider sitting down with them when you have ample time and are not distracted by other tasks. You Make sure your kids know that this conversation is important, and you are available for any questions or feelings they may want to share.

2. Keep the Conversation Age-Appropriate

The way you explain the move will depend on your children's age and maturity level. Younger children may need simpler language, while teenagers may have more questions and complex emotions. For younger children, keep the conversation brief but assure them that the move is not their fault and that both parents will continue to love them. With older children, acknowledge the difficulty of the situation and allow them to express their concerns. It’s crucial to validate their emotions, whether they feel angry, sad, or uncertain.

3. Reassure Them About Stability

Children thrive on stability, so when breaking the news, reassure them that some things will stay the same. This may include their relationship with both parents, the consistency of school, friendships, or activities. Explain to them how you will continue to support their needs and maintain routines to help them feel grounded. Make it clear that, while the home may change, their family’s love for them will never change.

4. Be Honest, But Avoid Overloading Them with Information

It's important to be honest with your children, but you also want to avoid overwhelming them with too many details. If you’re in the midst of a difficult divorce, avoid sharing the specifics of the situation unless necessary. Focus on the move itself and how it affects them directly. Children often don’t need to know all the adult details; instead, focus on how they’ll adjust to their new living situation and how they can stay connected to both parents.

5. Involve Them in the Process

Children can feel more in control and less anxious if they are involved in the process of the move. Let them help choose their new room, pack their belongings, or pick out new furniture. Giving them a sense of ownership over their new space can empower them and help them feel like they have some control over the situation. This involvement also helps create a positive association with the move.

6. Acknowledge Their Feelings and Be Ready for Emotions

Children may react in various ways to the news of the move—anger, sadness, relief, or even a sense of betrayal. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and give them the space to process. Don’t brush off their emotions or tell them they shouldn’t feel a certain way. Reassure them that it’s normal to feel upset, and encourage open communication. Let them know it’s okay to express their feelings and that you are there to listen and support them.

7. Create Positive Memories and Traditions

One way to ease the transition is to focus on creating positive memories during the move. Explore your new neighborhood together, find parks or activities to enjoy, and start new traditions that can help build excitement. For example, plan a “moving day celebration” or explore a new part of Minneapolis that could excite your children. Helping them create new, happy memories associated with the new home can make the transition feel less daunting.

8. Keep Communication Open After the Move

After the move, keep the lines of communication open. Keep checking in with your children regularly to see how they’re adjusting to the new home. It’s important for both parents to support the transition and continue being there for their children emotionally. If your children seem to be struggling with the adjustment, consider seeking the help of a family therapist who can guide your family through this change.

9. Set Realistic Expectations for the Adjustment Period

Moving after a divorce is a big change for kids, and it’s important to set realistic expectations for how long it will take them to adjust. They may feel a sense of loss, confusion, or even excitement during the first few months in the new home. The key is to be patient and supportive. Every child adjusts at their own pace, and providing consistent love, reassurance, and stability will help them through the transition.

Moving after divorce is a significant shift for both parents and children. By addressing your children’s emotions with honesty, empathy, and involvement, you can make this transition less overwhelming. While the process may be challenging, the key is to reassure your children that the love and support they need will remain constant. Moving to a new home in Minneapolis may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can also be the beginning of a fresh, hopeful chapter for your family.

If you’re a Minneapolis - St Paul parent facing this transition, take one step at a time, and remember that you are not alone. Many families have gone through similar experiences, and there are resources and support networks available to guide you through the process.

Please feel free to contract Shannon Lindstrom, Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert and Realtor® at RE/MAX Results today to begin your journey with the guidance and expertise that will help you make empowered decisions during this time.

Shannon Lindstrom, Realtor®, CDRE®, CREDS, GREEN, MILRES, MRP, VCA
RE/MAX Results
Direct: 612-616-9714
Lindstrom_S@msn.com
Shannon@ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstrom.info
https://www.ilumniinstitute.com/cdre/shannon-lindstrom