Here are a few ideas to get your kids excited about the move:

1.  Do they have hobbies?  Sports?  Crafts?  Arts?  Find a couple of fun things in your new area that they can look forward to.
2. Connect!  Service members get sponsors.  At many locations, there is a youth sponsorship program.  Check post/base/garrison webpages.  Or, contact the school they are heading to.
3. Retail therapy! Most kids love surprises.  On the weeks leading to your move, surprise your kids with some travel related gifts.  Slip them under a pillow, or in a backpack, making moving more exciting.  Here are our best ideas:

Whether you are traveling by plane or car, your kiddos will probably need an overnight (or several-night bag).  Want to encourage packing – there is nothing like some new luggage:

If you are familiar with resiliency training – you may know about “hunt the good stuff.”  Studies show that if you write down three things a day that made you happy and reflect on why they happened, why they made you happy or what you can do to have them happen again…you will start feeling more upbeat.

Phones are great for quick digital pics.  But are your kids interested is something different? Whether they are thinking about vlogging the move, or want to print out some pics of old friends before they go, here are a couple of our choices for fun cameras.

As you know – moves can be overwhelming.  If you want to open up conversation, a great way to start is with some books.  Here’s a few ideas: