Uprooting and moving to a new home is stressful for any family, but it can be even more difficult for children with special needs to handle. The good news is that a Long Island moving company can help to make your move less stressful for everyone in your family. Here are some tips to help.
Talk About Your Upcoming Move
Children with autism and other special needs often have a routine that they like to follow. They like the status quo and may be resistant to change. It’s important not to blindside them with the news of your move. Instead, introduce the idea early on. Let them know what to expect. A social story about your new home and neighborhood would be a good way to introduce your child to the idea. If possible, include photographs.
Ask Your Moving Company for Tips
Chances are that your moving company has some experience in assisting special needs families move. Some companies even support autism and other special needs charities as part of their business model. Ask them for their top tips for making the move go smoothly for your child. It may be possible for your child to meet the movers before the big day so that they can be familiar with the people who will be taking care of their things. Your moving company employees would be happy to talk to your child about what will be happening if they have questions. They can also help to reassure your child that their favorite possessions will be moving to the new home with them.
Keep Things Familiar
It might help for your child to see their belongings packed up and loaded on to the truck so that they know their belongings are going with you. If you think it might be too difficult for your child to handle, consider having them visit a familiar caregiver while you are moving. This will give you the opportunity to unpack your child’s bedroom first so that they have familiar and comforting surroundings when they arrive to your new home.
Your local moving company in Long Island can help you to make your move as smooth as possible for all of the members in your family, whether they have special needs or not.