13 Tips for Easing the Stress of PCSing with Children

PCSing can be stressful for anyone, but especially children. Often times young children can't comprehend the extent of what truly happens and what is involved in a PCS. They don't know why they can't see their friends, why they have to change schools, or why they have a new house. There are tons of tips and tricks that you can use to help ease the stress of PCSing with children. 

1. Talk to your children - Many children don't like to be surprised. Let them know about their new school and area and make it positive for them. Be open and honest and they will more than likely do the same back.

2. Create a PCS binder for your children - Include pictures of your new home, things to do, parks, and a travel map. Help get them excited about exploring the new area with you.

3. Find similar activities - Whether it be a sport, a hobby, or finding a new interest, it's a great way to get them excited about exploring the new area.

4. Changing schools - Be your child's advocate and strongest supporter. Find out all the information on school ratings, locations, etc. Involve them in the process by letting them go with you when you enroll them. You can even ask for a tour of the school. 

5. Have a goodbye party for the kids - Goodbyes don't have to be sad. Nothing fancy; just a dinner, sleepover, or day of hanging out. Make sure to pass out cards with "keep in touch" information.

6. Ask for help - Neighbors and friends can take a lot of stress out of the PCS. On days when movers are at your home, ask if they can watch your children. This can be great for both you and your children. You can focus on the moving process and your children can have another day of making memories with friends before the big move. 

7. Stay positive - Children are like sponges; they absorb everything going on around them. You can make this process easier on them by displaying positivity, patience, and excitement. 

8. Make it an adventure - Find cool places to stop, create fun car games, enjoy the ride. Let the children pick a place to eat for lunch and spoil them with a little dessert. Remember, they might not fully understand what is happening. Little things like this can brighten their mood. 

9. Keep them on a routine - It may be hard to keep your current routine during a PCS, but this will help them feel a bit of normalcy during the move. Try to practice similar routines such as bed time, eating schedule, etc. 

10. Find fun hotels - If you are driving, planning out your stops can be very beneficial. You can look for hotels with pools, free breakfast, and fun extras. This can be very enticing to your children. For example, you can explain that they have to ride in the car for x hours today, but then can go swimming as soon as you get to the hotel. It will give them something to look forward to after the car ride. 

11. Set up the children's bedrooms first - When you get your HHGs, set up their bedrooms first. This helps make them feel more like it's their home. They can also stay entertained by playing in their rooms while you set up other areas of the home. 

12. Give them a say - Ask their opinion on things in your new home. It makes them feel important and involved. Examples: "Which cabinet should we put your cups and plates in?" "Where should we set up the play room?" "How should we decorate your bathroom?"

13. If flying, take triangle shaped crayons - Coloring is a great way to keep your children busy on flights. By giving them triangle shaped crayons, they are less likely to fall on the floor. 

There are so many tips and trick for making a PCS go smoothly with children. What works for some may not work for others, but it's always worth a try! We know that PCSing can be draining, but we hope that these tips help you and your family by easing the stress of moving with children. Hang in there, mom + dad!